Shah alam: The government is formulating measures to ensure that people in Peninsular Malaysia can enjoy the so-called 'people's fish' at lower prices, said Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. He revealed that his ministry is exploring ways to bring fish such as kembung (mackerel), selar (yellowstripe scad), and sembilang (striped eel catfish) from Sabah, where prices are more economical compared to the peninsula, particularly in Sandakan and Tawau.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the move is not only intended to make fish more affordable in Peninsular Malaysia but also to aid in boosting the economy of local fishermen in Sabah. Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu highlighted that the pricing of certain items appeared slightly higher and expressed the need to find methods to make them cheaper, especially essential food items like fish. He also observed that vegetable prices remained at a moderate level.

The minister mentioned that implementing this initiative will require some time as it involves preparing the necessary facilities and conducting discussions with airlines and other stakeholders for logistical arrangements. He shared these insights after inspecting the national-level MADANI Semarak Ramadan Programme at Pasar Tani Taman Sri Andalas.

Furthermore, Mohamad stated that intensive discussions are ongoing with the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority to bring this plan to fruition. Regarding the programme he attended, it spans 680 locations at farmers' markets nationwide until February 18, involving 10,600 entrepreneurs with an expected total sales value of RM50 million.