Kuala lumpur: The government is giving fishermen without licences the opportunity to submit applications under the regularisation programme, which is implemented periodically to fill vacancies left by cancelled licences, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu stated that coastal fishermen could also apply for special boat licences through the District Fisheries Office, subject to the conditions and criteria set by the Fisheries Department (DOF). This programme is designed to allow more fishermen to operate legally, gain access to government assistance programmes, and improve compliance with fisheries regulations, which are intended to ensure the sustainability of resources and the well-being of fishing communities.
Mohamad Sabu was responding to a query from Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal (Bukit Gantang), who inquired about the flexibility or special mechanisms available for the issuance and renewal of fishing licences for Zone A fishermen, particularly traditional fishermen facing enforcement action over licensing issues. Mohamad noted that last year, 800 licences were approved nationwide, while 915 licences had been granted the year before.
He further explained that the existing licensing mechanisms and conditions remain relevant and continue to meet current needs, ensuring that licences are issued to individuals genuinely eligible and dependent on the fisheries sector as their main source of income. In response to a supplementary question about the need for more transparent criteria, Mohamad mentioned that DOF would review the criteria for issuing licences periodically to ensure they are granted to eligible individuals.
He emphasized that if individuals who are not fishermen have obtained licences, a written complaint should be lodged or a meeting with officers should be arranged so that appropriate action can be taken. The criteria for applying for a special boat licence include a 10-year residency confirmation from the head of the fishing village, going out to sea for at least 120 days a year, and obtaining support from the State Fisheries Office.
Mohamad added that the main conditions for applicants are that they must be aged 18 and above, be in good health, work as fishermen, and if they are pensioners, their pension must not exceed RM2,200. He emphasized that assistance is provided to those who are truly in need.