TANJUNG MANIS: Despite a growing emphasis on modern economic policies driven by digital technologies and the rise of industries focused on renewable energy and environmental sustainability, the national food supply sector especially agriculture and fisheries remains vital in Sarawak.
In stating this, Datuk Abdullah Saidol, the Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS), said that the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM), PETRONAS, and the Bruit Fishermen’s Association (PNK) have successfully established the Petronas Retail Outdoor Venture Reload (ROVR) petrol station in Tekajong.
“This initiative marks a significant step in supporting the local fishing community.
“The station provides convenient access to subsidised petrol for the fishermen’s boats,” he said during the opening ceremony of the PETRONAS ROVR Petrol Station Bruit PNK at the Tekajong Village Community Hall on Thursday.
He also urged PETRONAS, LKIM, and PNK to consider setting up a subsidised diesel supply station at the new LKIM jetty on the southern side of Pulau Bruit and to increase storage capacity at the current station, which often faces shortages during peak fishing seasons.
As the Semop assemblyman, Abdullah also advocated for initiatives to assist the wives of farmers and fishermen.
He suggested creating programmes that focus on processing agricultural and marine products into marketable goods, aiming to boost household incomes.
At the same event, Abdullah distributed school supplies, donated by PETRONAS, to 30 students from the Bruit PNK, including those from SK Bruit, SK Tekajong, SK Penipah, SK Betanak, and SK Penibong.
Additionally, LKIM and PENESA provided assistance to Jenohati Seperi, a fire victim and member of the Bruit Area Fishermen’s Association.
Mohd Zamarul Boldan received an educational aid of RM300 from Yayasan Nelayan Malaysia (YANEM). Furthermore, Anis Ayuni Sardini and Nur Wildayati Sardini were each given RM200 donations from the Fishermen’s Children Aid Fund (PNK Bruit).
