KOTA KINABALU: Fishmongers and retailers in Sabah, especially those from the interior are given special supplier price offers at RM6.99 per kilogram under the Program Ikan Rakyat.

Introduced by the Sabah Fish Marketing (Safma), this programme is aimed at easing the businesses of fishmongers and at the same time encouraging more to venture into the fisheries industry, said its General Manager Syed Mohd Hamizan Roslan.

He said this programme offers quality protein at an affordable price and those who wish to be part of it can contact Safma for more information.

“We hope to get more local retailers to be part of this programme, maybe expand their business and spur economic growth within the local community,” he said in a statement on Saturday (Sept 7).

Syed said this programme could help traders in the interiors who face challenges in getting fresh seafood supplies at affordable prices due to operational costs among other things.

“With this initiative, Safma is committed to ensuring that locals get fresh and affordable seafood throughout the state,” he said, adding those who want to know more can also contact Safma official, Owen at 014-370 3317.

Distributors registered under Safma can get a special distribution price with a fixed profit margin set by Safma.

The types of fish sold at RM6.99 per kilogram depend on the day’s commercial vessel catch because the types of fish vary according to months and the amount of catch also depends on weather conditions.

He said there are going to be certain months where there is an oversupply and some months, an undersupply of fish.

“So if for example there is an oversupply for that month, Safma would buy in bulk, but choose those which pass the quality check for individual quick freeze, before they are packed into 1kg packets,” he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/07/rural-fishmongers-in-sabah-given-special-supplier-price-under-program-ikan-rakyat