KUALA LUMPUR: Traditional fishing communities risk being sidelined by the e-invoicing policy, which remains bogged down by red tape, says Tanjung Piai MP Datuk Seri Wee Jeck Seng.
He urged Putrajaya to address mounting challenges faced by owners and operators of licensed Zone B and Zone C fishing vessels, particularly the costly and time-consuming process of ownership transfers, which is now mandatory for e-invoicing compliance.
"This bureaucratic red tape, coupled with high costs, is threatening the livelihoods of traditional fishing operators. Has a proper social impact study been done before implementing this policy?" he asked during the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) debate in the Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (Aug 7).
He proposed a moratorium on the requirement, especially for small-scale fishermen struggling with finances and documentation. A solution, he said, would be to simplify the process.
He also criticised the recent shift in labour policy that bans Zone B operators from hiring foreign workers – previously allowed under the 6P programme – which turned their existing crew illegal overnight.
"Most locals are unwilling to work under harsh sea conditions. Will the government review this policy?" he said.
On jetty operations, he raised concerns over monopolistic practices at Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM) facilities. He proposed an independent monitoring body to oversee transparent management and prevent abuse.
Wee also pointed out that current LKIM jetty operating hours of 8am to 5pm are unrealistic, as fishing schedules are dictated by tides. He urged authorities to review and extend the hours based on actual field needs.
"We cannot allow small fishermen to be crushed by rigid and overly technical systems.
"Saving this sector is vital – not just for the economy, but for the survival of coastal communities who form the backbone of our food supply," he added.
On urban poverty, Wee said the rising cost of living is hitting city households hard, despite Malaysia's economic growth. He cited Statistics Department data showing a stark difference between rural and urban living – RM1,423 per capita monthly in urban areas compared to RM927 in rural zones.
He urged the government to reconsider the RM1,700 monthly minimum wage, especially for urban workers and to expand intervention measures in cities like Kuala Lumpur.
On healthcare access, Wee highlighted urgent needs at KK3 Serkat health clinic in Pontian, which is operating with an ageing, cramped ambulance lacking CPR equipment.
He appealed for a modern, fully equipped replacement and long-term plans for a new facility to serve the growing population.
