Kuala lumpur: The National Fishermen's Association (NEKMAT) is planning to transport at least 12 tonnes of fish from Sabah to Peninsular Malaysia using sea freight in the upcoming months.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, General Manager Azrin Shah Ismail stated that the initial shipment will commence once the suppliers accumulate adequate stock and finalize the pricing. "Suppliers are now collecting the fish. Once 12 metric tonnes are accumulated, they will submit their pricing and within a month or two we will bring in the first shipment," he mentioned at the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2026.

The targeted fish species include selayang (short-bodied mackerel) and kembung (Indian mackerel), which are popular among consumers. Azrin Shah highlighted that NEKMAT had previously executed five trial shipments via air freight in April and early May, moving 1.2 tonnes of fish valued at approximately RM25,000.

However, he noted that the logistics cost from Sabah to NEKMAT's logistics hub in Taman Wahyu is roughly RM8 per kilogramme, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the purchase price, and is still considered significant. "We are still studying its potential. This project cannot yet be declared successful in lowering fish prices because the data has not proven it, but in terms of economic viability, the opportunity exists," he added.

Azrin Shah emphasized the need for regular shipments from Sabah, contingent on supply, as catch volumes are influenced by the monsoon season and local demand. He suggested that sea freight could be more appropriate for everyday fish varieties, while air freight may be better suited for high-value species.

Last month, it was reported that the Malaysian Fisheries Development Board (LKIM) is advocating for a joint venture between NEKMAT and the Sabah State Fishermen's Association (PENGASAH) to export fish from the state to Peninsular Malaysia. LKIM chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil remarked that Sabah is abundant in fish resources, which should be shared with the Peninsula.