BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Department of Fisheries at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, in collaboration with Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD), and Poni Group Sdn Bhd, organised Fishermen’s Day 2026 at the MPABD building in Kuala Belait on Thursday (July 2).
The celebration was held as one of the side programmes following the Brunei Darussalam Expedition and Conference on Sustaining Our Oceans: Innovation, Governance and Resilience for a Blue Future, which took place in May and June 2026.
In her welcoming remarks, acting director of Fisheries Wanidawati Tamat highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between government agencies and the fishing community to ensure the country’s fisheries resources are conserved for future generations.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive of MPABD Captain (Rtd) Zil Husam Abdul Rahman also emphasised the importance of complying with maritime safety regulations and observing appropriate safety measures while conducting fishing activities.
The programme brought together local fishermen and key stakeholders in the fisheries sector as an initiative to recognise and appreciate the valuable contributions of fishermen towards the development and strengthening of Brunei’s fisheries industry.
The celebration also aimed to raise awareness among the fishing community on the importance of complying with existing fisheries laws and regulations, including the enforcement of minimum catch size requirements for lobsters and crabs, as well as addressing the issue of Abandoned, Lost or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG), which poses significant threats to the sustainability of fisheries resources and marine ecosystems.
In line with these objectives, the programme featured a series of briefings covering fisheries management and enforcement, with representatives from the Department of Fisheries delivering presentations on the enforcement of minimum catch size regulations for lobsters and crabs.
The programme also highlighted fisheries licensing requirements and related enforcement measures to ensure fishing activities are conducted in an orderly, responsible, and lawful manner in accordance with the Fisheries Act, Chapter 61.
Attendees also partook in a briefing on basic life-saving measures at sea and the importance of complying with designated maritime safety zones established by the MPABD.
The initiative sought to strengthen awareness of maritime safety and safeguard the welfare and well-being of fishermen while carrying out fishing operations.
As a gesture of appreciation for their contributions to the national fisheries industry, fishermen in attendance received basic safety equipment, including life jackets, hoping that these contributions will encourage safer working practices and enhance preparedness while at sea.
In organising the Fishermen’s Day 2026, the organisers hope that fishermen will continue to adopt responsible fishing practices, comply with established regulations, and prioritise safety at sea, thereby ensuring the long-term sustainability of the nation’s fisheries industry for future generations. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
