Fisheries Country Profile: Malaysia 2025

Information Updated 2025

As a coastal state surrounded by significant bodies of water, Malaysia exhibits the characteristics of a maritime nation where peace, economic stability, and security are priorities in its rise and development. As shown in Figure 1, Malaysia has two main parts known as Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah Sarawak, which is a strategic geopolitical position with one of the busiest maritime route in the world i.e. the Straits of Malacca on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, whereas the South China Sea, Sulu Sea, and Celebes Sea separates the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. With this topography, the Malaysia Maritime Zone encompasses internal waters, the territorial sea, and an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) covering approximately 556,285 km². Its coastline extends over 6,000 km and includes both the eastern and western regions of Malaysia, featuring more than 870 islands.

Malaysia practices parliamentary democracy with constitutional monarchy. His Majesty the King is the head of state. Malaysia consists of 13 states and three federal territories. The executive authority is also vested in the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and is executed by a cabinet of ministers led by the prime minister. The Federal Constitution clearly delineates the separation of powers among the country’s legislative, judicial, and executive branches.

The country’s total human population increased by 2.1 % from 32.7 million in 2022 to 34.4 million in 2023. Between 2022 and 2023, the population grew from 30.2 million to 30.4 million, with a growth rate increase from 0.6 % to 0.7 %. The Bumiputera made up 70.1 % of the population, followed by Chinese (22.6 %), Indians (6.6 %), and others (0.7 %) (Department of Statistics Malaysia, n.d.).

In 2023, the country’s fisheries sector was able to achieve self-sufficiency ratio of approximately 90.7 %, fisheries made a 11.6 % contribution to agriculture GDP and 0.7 % contribution to the overall national GDP. The per capita fish consumption of Malaysians is 44.7 kg / person per year, which is among the highest in the Southeast Asian region. This indicates a healthy fisheries sector with strong self-sufficiency and significant agricultural GDP contributions.

Fisheries Agencies

The Department of Fisheries (DOF) Malaysia is a government agency under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The vision of DOF Malaysia is to be the leader in the transformation of a sustainable and competitive fishery (Department of Fisheries Malaysia, n.d.). Its mission is to:

• Develop a dynamic market-based fisheries industry through creative and innovative approaches.
• Manage the national fishery resources in an efficient, innovative and environmental friendly manner based on scientific information and good governance; and
• Enhance the delivery system through skillful, knowledgeable and professional human capital.

It is governed by the Fisheries Act 1985 and its regulations, which are essential for managing fisheries resources through several measures, including the National Plan of Action (NPOA) to promote the growth and sustainability of the fishing industry. DOF Malaysia is responsible for managing the nation’s fishery resources efficiently, innovatively, and in an environmentally friendly way based on technical and scientific knowledge and professional governance. The main responsibilities are to increase the food supply, assist in the income generation of the target groups, and contribute to the country’s exports. DOF Malaysia is strengthening the implementation of the new National Agrofood Policy (NAP 2.0) by ensuring an adequate supply of fish to meet local demand, expanding the export market of fish products, and conserving, managing, and utilizing resources sustainably. Additionally, DOF Malaysia promotes the growth of the ornamental fish, seaweed, freshwater, and marine aquaculture industries. To ensure that products are produced in accordance with international standards and so have a higher market value, DOF Malaysia also promotes good aquaculture practice (GAP).

The Director General of Fisheries is the head of DOF Malaysia and is responsible for the general supervision of all matters pertaining to fisheries under the Fisheries Act 1985 and its regulation. Under the Director General of Fisheries Office, Fisheries Research Institute, SEAFDEC/MFRDMD, Policy and Strategic Planning Division and three other units report directly to this office. The Deputy Director General of Fisheries (Management) oversees four main divisions, while the Deputy Director General of Fisheries (Development) oversees five main divisions. Additionally, 14 state offices have been established to facilitate and implement programs and initiatives under DOF Malaysia, as well as to enforce the rules and regulations outlined in the Fisheries Act 1985 and its regulations.

The Government of Malaysia established the Fisheries Research Institute (FRI) in 1957 as the sole public research institution that concentrates on the field of fisheries (FRI, n.d.). The main objective of the establishment is to conduct research in the aspects of fishery resources, aquaculture and ecology to support the DOF Malaysia in the management and development of the fisheries sector in Malaysia. As one of the main tropical fisheries research institutions in the region, FRI has substantially expanded its functions and responsibilities by establishing 13 research centers and stations throughout the country. In the areas of aquaculture, capture fisheries, processing fishery products, conservation of the aquatic environment, and enhancement of the quality and utility of aquatic life, the FRI is conducting research activities that are consistent with the department’s and industry’s requirements, guided by ethical and standardized codes of conduct. The aims of FRI are to:

• Provide scientific information and expertise for sustainable management and exploitation of fisheries resources;
• Deliver scientific basis and support for the restoration and enhancement of fisheries resources;
• Develop appropriate new technologies and the use of new species in aquaculture development; and
• Diversify the rational use of aquatic life resources

The Fisheries Innovation, Demonstration, and Transformation Centre (FIDTEC) serves as a technical support center for extension services, focusing on enhancing technical skills for both the target group and departmental staff.  FIDTEC contributes to the advancement of the fisheries support industry by enhancing human capital skills, providing technical guidance, facilitating the transfer of technology, and fostering innovation in alignment with contemporary developments.  The specialization field for each FIDTEC assists the local industry in acquiring professional services pertinent to the fisheries projects conducted.

Fisheries Education

The National Agricultural Skills Training Program (PLPKP) was established in line with the approval of the Cabinet on 24 July 2002 to enhance agricultural production through a model of developing skilled individuals in the field of agriculture (Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, n.d.). PLKPK is implemented based on the National Occupational Skills Standard (NOSS) with the provisions of the National Skill Development Act 2006. In line with this initiative, there are two fisheries training centers established, namely: 1) Malaysia Fisheries Academy in Chendering, Terengganu and 2) Sultan Nazrin Shah Fisheries College in Lumut, Perak. The Fisheries Certification Program, offered at the Malaysia Fisheries Academy, conducts full-time training for two years. Meanwhile, Sultan Nazrin Shah Fisheries College offers programs under the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Level 3 and Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM) for marine aquaculture and marine capture fisheries.

Trainees study aspects of capture fisheries, aquaculture, biosecurity, post-harvest product management, accounting principles, and economics. Trainees are also exposed to knowledge of entrepreneurship and maritime safety. This certification program has received recognition or accreditation from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). Each trainee is provided with accommodation, meals, and monthly allowance.

Fisheries Laws, Regulations, and Policies

The fisheries sector of Malaysia is governed by various laws and policies aimed at ensuring sustainable management and development. The Fisheries Act 1985(Act 317)  and its regulations play a crucial role in managing fisheries resources through various measures. Act 317 is the primary legislative framework in Malaysia governing fisheries management, conservation, and development within the country. It provides legal frameworks to regulate fishing activities, protect marine and inland fisheries resources, and promote sustainable practices. Act 317 ensures the sustainability of fish stock and aquatic ecosystem, protection of marine and freshwater biodiversity, framework of economic development and preventing illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in Malaysian waters. Key provisions of Act 317 include:

• Administration of fisheries in Malaysia;
• Requirement of fisheries plans based on the best scientific information available and designed to ensure optimum utilization of fishery resources, consistent with sound conservation;
• Licensing and management of local fishing vessels and fishing gear, and marine culture system;
• Conditions in license and directions, offenses, prohibition and control of local fishing vessels and fishing gear, and marine culture systems;
• Control of foreign fishing vessels operating in Malaysian fishing waters, including the passage of foreign fishing vessels through Malaysian fisheries waters;
• Establishment of Marine Park or Marine Reserve;
• Promoting development in aquaculture;
• Promotion of development and management on inland fisheries and turtles; and
• Power for enforcement, offenses, and legal procedures with regards to the implementation of this act.

Other Acts relevant to fisheries industries include the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia Act 1971, Malaysia Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011, International Trade in Endangered Species Act 2008, Feed Act 2009, and Food Act 1983 & Food Regulations 1985.

Moreover, the National Agro-Food Policy 2021–2030 (NAP 2.0) charts the course for the modernization and sustainable growth of Malaysia’s agro-food sector, including fisheries. It focuses on increasing productivity, strengthening food security, and promoting environmentally responsible practices (Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, n.d.-a.) Meanwhile, the National Policy on Biological Diversity (2022–2030) integrates biodiversity protection into fisheries planning and governance.

Fishing Zones

Generally marine capture fishery is categorized based on fishing area, gross registered tonnage (GRT), and type of fishing gears, namely: coastal fisheries, deep sea fisheries, and high seas. Coastal fisheries are defined as fishing activity below 30 nm from shore with fishing vessels below 70 GRT, while deep-sea fisheries are defined as fishing activities more than 30 nm throughout the whole of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) with fishing vessels above 70 GRT. High seas fisheries are defined as fishing activities operating in areas beyond the country’s EEZ which are regulated by Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs). Currently, Malaysian flagged fishing vessels are only allowed to operate in the Indian Ocean catching tuna and tuna-like species of which Malaysia is a party to. Any person who undertakes any fishing activity, operates, or allows any local fishing vessel to be operated in Malaysian waters for the purpose of fishing must have a valid license issued by DOF Malaysia.

Malaysia categorized its marine capture fisheries within our EEZ a through zoning system based on the distance from the shoreline as shown in Figure 2. Fishing vessels with ≤ 40 gross registration tonnage (GRT)  using traditional fishing gear are permitted to operate in any fishing zone. Fishing vessels using commercial fishing gear are only permitted to fish in Zone B and beyond, depending on their GRT, with the exception for anchovy purse seine due to the nature of the resources in Zone A. The fishing zones are designed to distribute fishing areas fairly based on vessel size and fishing practices. Thus, these zones are also able to mitigate conflicts between traditional and commercial fishers as well as to ensure the sustainability of our fisheries resources.

In 2014, a new zoning system was implemented in the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia as shown in Figure 3, specifically in the states of Kedah, Penang, Perak, and Selangor. The purpose of this system was to restore these areas, which had been experiencing a decline in fishery resources, control the number of trawlers and their activities of encroachment in traditional fishing areas, and enhance the protection of coastal areas to protect juvenile fishes. There was an introduction on Conservation Zone of 0 to 1 nautical mile which is the prohibited zone for any fishing activities except for aquaculture, cockles and fisheries-based communities’ activities.

 

Fishery Statistics

The country’s fisheries sector remains a key contributor to national food security, which produced 1.79 million MT in 2023, a 5.5 % decrease from the total production of 1.89 million MT in 2022. It is worth noting that the value has increased by 3.6 %, from USD 3.5 billion in 2022 to USD 3.6 billion.  Figure 4 shows the fishery production from 2019 to 2023 which fluctuated, showing signs of gradual decline with a temporary recovery in 2022. Although marine capture fisheries are dominant, there was a decline from 1.46 million MT in 2019 to 1.27 million MT in 2023, indicating growing pressure on marine resources. In contrast, aquaculture production has emerged as critical and expanding, compensating for declines in capture fisheries and supporting national fish demand. Aquaculture production increased from 411,782 MT in 2019 to a peak of 573,682 MT in 2022 before moderating to 506,867 MT in 2023. Meanwhile, the inland capture fisheries showed consistent growth, rising from 5,568 MT in 2019 to 9,434 MT in 2023.

As shown in Figure 5, the overall fishery production value has demonstrated resilience and steady growth despite some disruptions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, it reached an estimated USD 3.5 billion, the highest amount over the five-year period. Marine capture fishery was the largest contributor, with an average of more than USD 2.4 billion per year. Despite a gradual decrease in production, the value remained constant, indicating either dominance of premium species or higher unit prices. Aquaculture production value increased significantly from USD 719 million in 2019 to USD 972 million in 2023. Despite being relatively small-scale, the value of inland capture fisheries rose significantly from USD 19.6 million in 2019 to USD 39.1 million in 2023. Inland capture fisheries provide high value per MT despite the limited volume due to niche species and local market pricing. Aquaculture is gradually surpassing marine capture fisheries in terms of economic contribution. The value per MT has increased across all sectors, indicating improved market prices and the potential for greater revenue per unit.

 

Capture Fisheries

Marine capture fisheries are the primary contributor to total fisheries production, contributing a significant 71.1 % to the total fisheries production in Malaysia. In 2023, marine capture fisheries yielded 1,270,277MT, valued at USD 2.5 billion. Meanwhile, the inland capture fisheries contributed 0.5 % of total production, with 9,434 MT worth USD 39.1 million. Consequently, marine capture fisheries play a crucial role in the overall sustainability and profitability of the fishing industry. Table 1 shows the number of fishing vessels and fishers in marine capture fisheries in 2023, while Table 2 shows the total landing in 2023 by top five species group.

Table 1. Number of fishing vessels and fishers in marine capture fisheries of Malaysia in 2023 (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 2. Marine capture fisheries landing (MT) of Malaysia in 2023 by species group (Department of Fisheries Malaysia, 2023b)

Inland capture fisheries primarily operate in rivers, dams, ex-mines, lakes, and other environments. The management of inland capture fisheries is governed by state enactments, and currently, each state has its set of inland fisheries regulations. This means that the regulations and practices for managing inland fisheries can vary significantly from one state to another, reflecting local conditions and priorities. As a result, stakeholders in each state must navigate their specific legal frameworks to ensure sustainable fishing practices. As shown in Table 3, a total of 11,455 fishers were involved in inland fisheries, and Table 4 shows the total landing in 2023 by top five species group.

Table 3. Number of fishers in inland capture fisheries of Malaysia in 2023 (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 4. Top five inland fisheries landing (MT) of Malaysia in 2023 by species (Department of Fisheries Malaysia, 2023b)

Aquaculture

Freshwater, brackish water, and seaweed aquaculture are the main drivers of the country’s aquaculture industry. In 2023, the aquaculture industry in Malaysia produced 506,866 MT, which was worth USD 0.97 billion. Table 5 shows the aquaculture production in 2023. The brackish water and freshwater aquaculture production of top five species by quantity and value are shown in Tables 6–9. Moreover, Malaysia produced a total of around 10.8 billion seeds in 2023 from the government and private hatcheries (Table 10). In alignment with the National Food Security Policy Action Plan 2021-2025 and the National Agro-Food Policy 2021-2030 (DAN 2.0), aquaculture has been identified as one of the main sectors contributing to the country’s food security. The government of Malaysia intends to increase aquaculture production to 40 % by 2030 to reduce the demand for captured fisheries and boost profits in the aquaculture industry.

Table 5. Aquaculture production of Malaysia in 2023 (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 6. Top five species in brackish water aquaculture production of Malaysia in 2023 by quantity (MT) (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 7. Top five species in freshwater aquaculture production of Malaysia in 2023 by quantity (MT) (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 8. Top five species in brackish water aquaculture of Malaysia in 2023 by value (USD)( DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 9. Top five species in freshwater aquaculture of Malaysia in 2023 by value (USD)(DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 10. Seed production of Malaysia in 2023 by number of fish (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Ornamental Fish Production

The ornamental fish industry in Malaysia has significant potential for continued growth. This expansion can be attributed to increasing domestic and international demand, as well as advancements in breeding and aquaculture practices that enhance fish quality and variety. The production of ornamental fish is projected to rise by 352 million fish, valued at USD 120 million, by 2030. In 2023, the production reached 241 million fish with a total value of USD 81 million, of which 21 % was designated for export. Export markets are expected to expand as demand for ornamental fish increases globally. This growth will boost the economy and create new opportunities for local breeders and businesses in industry. Table 11 and Table 12 show the top species of ornamental in terms of number and value in 2023, respectively.

Table 11. Production of top 10 ornamental fish species of Malaysia in 2023 in terms of number (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Table 12. Top 10 ornamental fish species of Malaysia in 2023 in terms of value (USD 1,000) (DOF Malaysia, 2023b)

Fish Trade

The exported and imported fish and fishery products of Malaysia in 2023 are shown in Tables 13 and 14, respectively.

Table 13. Fish and fishery products exported by Malaysia in 2023 by quantity (t) and value (USD 1,000) (DOF Malaysia, 2023a)

Table 14. Fish and fishery products imported by Malaysia in 2023 by quantity (t) and value (USD 1,000) (DOF Malaysia, 2023a)

International Agreements and Collaborations

Malaysia has become a member of several international organizations and instruments where DOF Malaysia participated in numerous meetings to present and safeguard the country’s interests in discussions regarding international fisheries issues.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) – Malaysia officially became a Member of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on 29 March 1962. Malaysia also participates in several international meetings organised by FAO held biannually such as the Committee on Fisheries (COFI), the Sub-Committee on Fisheries Management, the Sub-Committee on Fish Trade and the Sub-Committee on Aquaculture.

World Trade Organization (WTO) – Malaysia has ratified the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Fisheries Subsidies Agreement (FSA), which is a global effort to curb harmful fishing subsidies and protect fish stocks on 26 February 2024.

World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) – WOAH is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1924 as the Office International des Epizooties (OIE). In May 2003, they adopted the common name World Organisation for Animal Health. WOAH focuses on transparently disseminating information on animal diseases, improving animal health globally and thus build a safer, healthier and more sustainable world. DOF Malaysia is National Focal Point for Aquatic Animals.

Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) – Malaysia is a Contracting Party to IOTC since 22 May 1998. As a member of the IOTC, Malaysia has the right to fish tuna and tuna-like species in the IOTC competence area by complying to the Conservation and Management Measures (CMMs) established by the commission of IOTC. Malaysia also participates in the IOTC meetings held annually which discuss issues related to tuna management in the Indian Ocean. IOTC members are required to report annual tuna landings to the IOTC Secretariat. There are 31 vessels and one (1) carrier vessel authorized to operate in this area.

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) – As one of the founding members, Malaysia participate in fisheries projects under APEC framework through the Oceans and Fisheries Working Group (OFWG) and benefit from funding provided under APEC fisheries projects. Malaysia continues to implement the 2019 APEC Roadmap on Marine Debris Management, the 2019 Roadmap on Combatting IUU Fishing and the Small-scale Fisheries and Aquaculture Roadmap under OFWG.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) – As one of founding members, Malaysia participates in several major ASEAN meetings held annually such as the Special Senior Officers Meeting – ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (Sp. SOM – AMAF), ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF), AMAF+3, and the ASEAN Sectoral Working Group on Fisheries (ASWGFi) and other relevant technical meetings. Malaysia continues implemented ASEAN Work plan and ASEAN-SEAFDEC Resolution and Plan of Action on Sustainable Fisheries for Food Security for the ASEAN Region Towards 2030.

Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) – As one of founding members of SEAFED, Malaysia has signed the agreement on 26 January 1968 and are involved in several main meetings organised by SEAFDEC each year. The meetings are the SEAFDEC Council Meeting, the ASEAN SEAFDEC Fisheries Consultative Group and several Regional Technical Consultations to discuss joint positions on issues related to fisheries. Malaysia also host the Marine Fishery Resources Development and Management Department (MFRDMD) as fourth department of SEAFDEC in Chendering, Terengganu.

Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA) – The Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific is an intergovernmental organization that promotes rural development through sustainable aquaculture and aquatic resources management. As a member of NACA, Malaysia participates in two annual meetings such as the NACA Governing Council Meeting and the Technical Advisory Committee Meeting. The network is more focused on the discussion of aquaculture issues and new developments in aquaculture.

Regional Plan of Action to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate (IUU) Fishing (RPOA-lUU) – Malaysia under DOF Malaysia is a member of the RPOA–IUU and participates to the Coordination Committee Meeting (RPOA–IUU Meeting). The meeting reviews the progress of each member in implementing the RPOA–IUU work plan and address challenges under its 11 key components under RPOA–IUU framework. Malaysia also shares information of IUU fishing with RPOA–IUU members to enhance fisheries governance, promote responsible fishing practices, and eliminate IUU fishing in the Southeast Asian region.

Coral Triangle Initiative (CTI-CFF) – The Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI–CFF) is a multilateral partnership established in 2007 to address urgent threats to coral reefs, fisheries, and coastal livelihoods across six countries known as the “CT6”: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste. Malaysia participates in the initiative through regular Senior Officials’ Meetings (SOMs) and Ministerial Meetings, contributing to updating priorities, planning, and securing funding. CTI-CFF is guided by Regional Plan of Action (RPoA).

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) – CITES is an international agreement between governments, aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species. DOF Malaysia serves both the Management Authority (MA) and Scientific Authority (SA) for aquatic species.

The Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation and Management of Marine Turtles and their Habitats of the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia (MoU IOSEA) – The Memorandum of Understanding is a specialized intergovernmental agreement concluded under the auspices of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. Malaysia has signed the MoU on 19 September 2011.

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) – The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is the international legal instrument for the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. Malaysia ratified CBD on 24 June 1994.

International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI) – DOF Malaysia is a member of the ICRI and participate in several ICRI Working Groups such as reef resilience and restoration.

Bilateral and technical arrangements:

• Malaysia and Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS)
• Malaysia and Worldfish which Malaysia hosting WorldFish headquarters in Penang
• MoU on Agriculture Cooperation between Malaysia and Denmark
• MoU on Agriculture Cooperation between Malaysia and People’s Republic of China
• MoU on Agriculture Cooperation between Malaysia and Australia
• MoU between the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and the Government of Malaysia in respect of the common guidelines concerning treatment of fishermen by maritime law enforcement agencies of Malaysia and the Republic of Indonesia.

References

Department of Fisheries Malaysia. (n.d.). Vision, Mission & Role. Department of Fisheries Malaysia Official Portal. https://www.dof.gov.my/en/corporate-info/introduction/vision-mission-role/
Department of Fisheries Malaysia. (2020). Fisheries Statistics Volume I, 2020. Department of Fisheries Malaysia Official Portal. https://www.dof.gov.my/en/resources/fisheries-statistics-i/
Department of Fisheries Malaysia. (2021). Fisheries Statistics Volume I, 2021. Department of Fisheries Malaysia Official Portal. https://www.dof.gov.my/en/resources/fisheries-statistics-i/
Department of Fisheries Malaysia. (2022). Fisheries Statistics Volume I, 2022. Department of Fisheries Malaysia Official Portal. https://www.dof.gov.my/en/resources/fisheries-statistics-i/
Department of Fisheries Malaysia. (2023a). Fisheries Statistics II (Import & Export), 2023. Department of Fisheries Malaysia Official Portal. https://www.dof.gov.my/en/resources/fisheries-statistics-ii/
Department of Fisheries Malaysia. (2023b). Fisheries Statistics Volume I, 2023. Department of Fisheries Malaysia Official Portal. https://www.dof.gov.my/en/resources/fisheries-statistics-i/
Department of Statistics Malaysia. (n.d.). Current Population Estimates, Malaysia, 2023. https://www.dosm.gov.my/portal-main/release-content/current-population-estimates-malaysia—-2023
Fisheries Research Institute. (n.d.). About Us. Fisheries Research Institute Official Portal. https://fri.dof.gov.my/en/about-us/
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). (2011). FAO. 2011. AQUASTAT Country Profile – Malaysia. https://www.fao.org/aquastat/en/countries-and-basins/country-profiles/country/MYS
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. (n.d.-a). National Agrofood Policy—Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. https://www.kpkm.gov.my/en/agro-food-policy/national-agrofood-policy
Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. (n.d.-b). Program Latihan Kemahiran Pertanian Kebangsaan (PLKPK)—Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. https://www.kpkm.gov.my/en/programs-and-initiatives/program-pengajian-tvet-pertanian/program-pengajian-tvet-pertanian-technical-and-vocational-education-and-training-sepenuh-masa/national-agricultural-skills-training-program

Acknowledgement

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues from the Department of Fisheries Malaysia particularly the Policy and Strategic Planning Division, Fisheries Extension Division, Capture Fisheries Resources Division and Fisheries Research Institute Kampung Acheh for their invaluable assistance in providing the relevant data and information. I also extend my gratitude to all 2025 RFPN Members and the staff from the SEAFDEC Secretariat for their support and advice in completing the Fisheries Country Profile of Malaysia.

About the Author

Mr. Mohd FAIZRUS Anwar bin Roslan
Regional Fisheries Policy Network (RFPN) Member for Malaysia
SEAFDEC Secretariat, Bangkok, Thailand
faizrus@dof.gov.my

Mr. Mohd Faizrus Anwar bin Roslan is a Senior Fisheries Officer at the Department of Fisheries Malaysia. He currently serves in the Innovation and Entrepreneurs Division under the Fisheries Extension Division. In this capacity, he is responsible for supervising and coordinating initiatives related to fisheries innovation and technology transfer, ensuring that industry stakeholders have access to cutting-edge practices and tools. He coordinates the implementation of the myAgropreneur Perikanan (myAP) development program, which supports the growth of young and emerging fisheries entrepreneurs throughout Malaysia. Additionally, Mr. Faizrus coordinates both local and international technical capacity-building programs designed to enhance the skills and competencies of stakeholders within the fisheries sector. Furthermore, he oversees the activities of the Fisheries Technology Extension Center and the Incubator Program, which provide a platform for the trial, adaptation, and dissemination of new technologies. His role also includes offering technical advice to targeted groups and promoting entrepreneur development programs that align with national policies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.