JASIN: Thirty fishing boats decorated with Jalur Gemilang joined a 15km flotilla from the Serkam Jetty to Kuala Merlimau Jetty on Sunday (Sept 10) for the Semarak Gemilang 2023 programme to enliven Malaysia Day celebrations on Sept 16.
"This programme was jointly organised by 17 state government agencies to nurture and strengthen patriotism by displaying the Jalur Gemilang and engaging the fishing community,” said state Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security Committee chairman Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh after launching the programme here Sunday.
Also present was Melaka Information Department director Shahrom Ravin Daram Abdullah.
Muhamad Akmal also suggested that the district's fishing associations venture into downstream industries, including applying for land at the second Permanent Food Production Park (TKPM) which will be developed in Machap, Alor Gajah.
He said the 12.14ha project will provide fishermen an opportunity to increase their income through agriculture when their catch is low or affected by the monsoon season.
He said in addition to agriculture, the state government has also focused on developing cockle and mussel farm projects in the waters of Merlimau and Sebatu to supplement the fishermen’s income, which has already started producing results. - Bernama
