BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: A total of 119 local fishermen learned about the importance of preserving marine life and maintaining sustainable fishery resources during the Fishermen’s Day event held in conjunction with World Oceans Day at Jerudong Beach recently.
The event, the first of its kind to be held under the main theme ‘Empowering Fishermen’s Community’, aimed at strengthening the development of the fisheries sector and supporting the well-being of the nation’s economy. A total of 16 reef balls of varying sizes were made during the event.
Among the main activities held was the making of artificial reef balls, involving the participation of local fishermen who were given exposure to basic skills in artificial reef construction techniques.
Several talks were also held, including the basic safety at sea by the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD), aimed at raising awareness and enhancing fishermen’s knowledge on safety measures and preparedness for emergency situations.
The session aimed to raise awareness on the importance of managing and preserving fishery resources sustainably through compliance with catch size regulations, demonstrated by procedures for measuring prawns and crabs.
Other activities included the Mobile Fisheries Licensing Counter, which facilitated the issuance of fishing gear licences and ensured that fishermen comply with regulations set by the Department of Fisheries, allowing them to carry out fishing activities legally and responsibly.
A Fishermen Assistance Counter was also available through the collaboration of the Pengupayaan Asnaf Zakat (PROPAZ) programme as well as institutions such as Perbadanan Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB), Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) and Bank Usahawan. The initiative provided opportunities for fishermen to access financing, business guidance, and expand their economic activities to increase competitiveness.
An exhibition and discussion on boat trailer safety was held by the National Road Safety Council, while exhibitions featuring boat engines and various fishing equipment were also showcased.
According to the Department of Fisheries, the number of small-scale fishermen registered in Brunei Darussalam as of 2024 stands at 1,500 individuals.
Deputy Permanent Secretary I at the MPRT Haji Mohd Yusree bin Haji Junaidi was the guest of honour at the event organised by the Department of Fisheries at the Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) in collaboration with Poni Group Sdn Bhd.
Members of the diplomatic corps, Penghulu of Mukim Sengkurong and Acting Village Head of Kampong Jerudong ‘A’ were also present. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
