Kelantan: Kelantan's ornamental fish industry recorded a production value exceeding RM8 million from 2023 to 2025, with a total output of 468,673 fish of various species.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kelantan Fisheries Department director Ismail Ibrahim stated that the main species bred by local breeders are guppy, betta, and molly, which continue to enjoy strong demand in the market. He mentioned that there are currently 47 active ornamental fish entrepreneurs across the state, in locations such as Kota Bharu, Bachok, Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah, Jeli, Tumpat, Gua Musang, and Kuala Krai.

Ismail highlighted that this achievement demonstrates the ornamental fish industry's potential as a significant aquaculture segment that can generate income for entrepreneurs and contribute to the state's economic growth. He made these remarks to reporters during the opening and closing ceremony of the Kelantan Ornamental Fish and Aquaculture Festival 2026 at Dataran Pantai Irama.

In response to the strong market demand, Ismail encouraged more individuals, particularly youths, to consider venturing into ornamental fish breeding, which offers promising prospects and favorable returns. He noted that the industry can be pursued commercially on a large scale or as a home-based business, requiring lower capital than several other aquaculture segments.

Ismail further explained that ornamental fish have a niche group of enthusiasts, and their value is determined by species, size, color, and quality. He pointed out that certain species, such as arowana, can command prices in the thousands of ringgit per fish. Besides being sold as pets, ornamental fish also hold commercial value through participation in competitions and exhibitions that attract both local and international enthusiasts.

The Kelantan Ornamental Fish and Aquaculture Festival 2026, which runs for two days starting yesterday, brings together more than 80 participants and showcases over 300 species of ornamental fish.