KUCHING: The fishermen association of Sarawak (Penesa) said the fishing community in the state is not abusing the diesel subsidy meant for them.
According to its chairman Awangku Tajudin Awangku Ibrahim, the subsidy was intended to support the livelihoods of fishermen in Sarawak, and it was not being abused by fishermen themselves.
“Fishermen are being unfairly blamed for the abuse of the diesel subsidy. In many cases, certain parties rent fishing boats to evade detection by authorities, making it appear as though the fishermen themselves are responsible,” said Awangku Tajudin when met by New Sarawak Tribune on Sunday.
“Let me set the record straight – we are the good guys here,” he declared, asserting the association’s stance on the issue, adding that the abuse had mainly been reported in the peninsula.
“While this issue may not be happening here, it’s a serious issue that not only affects the livelihoods of our honest fishermen but also undermines the entire purpose of the subsidy.
“We must take action to hold the real culprits accountable and ensure that the subsidy reaches the intended beneficiaries.”
“The perpetrators of diesel subsidy abuse are clever and elusive. They know that using their own ship to transport the illicit fuel makes them more susceptible to getting caught,” explained Awangku Tajudin.
“To evade detection, they often rent fishing boats and purchase diesel in small quantities that match the capacity of the vessel, in order to avoid suspicion. It’s important to remember that the fishermen’s diesel subsidy has a fixed quota, so any excess amount is a clear indication of foul play.”
Fishermen are receiving diesel and petrol subsidies at a subsidised price of RM1.65 per litre to cover part of the cost of fishing operations.
However, only Zone A coastal boat fishermen are eligible for the subsidy, while Zone B, C, D, and others are not provided any subsidies. Additionally, tugboats are also not subsidised.
Tthe Malaysian Fisheries Development Board (LKIM) explained that the Fishermen’s Diesel and Petrol Subsidy Scheme was established in 2006 to assist fishermen in meeting expenses associated with fishing operations, in response to the rise in oil prices in the market.
In Sarawak, a total of 5,879 recipients received petrol subsidies, and 2,645 recipients received diesel subsidies in 2021.
To ensure the efficient distribution of subsidised diesel to fishermen, three wholesalers have been appointed, including Penesa.
The subsidy is available at a total of 45 distribution points, comprising 17 diesel sales centers and 28 petrol stations throughout the state.
During the Budget 2023 presentation on Feb 24, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that there were flaws in the distribution of diesel subsidies, amounting to RM10 billion last year.
As a result, the concerned ministry launched an investigation with the help of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and police to ensure the subsidy reaches the intended recipients.
Despite no specific mention of budget allocation for the fishermen’s sector in the recently presented budget, Awangku Tajudin, is optimistic that all assistance to fishermen will continue.
“When I reached out to the National Fishermen’s Association (NEKMAT), they gave me their assurance that all support for our hardworking fishermen will be maintained,” he stated confidently.
Penesa will be attending a meeting with the NEKMAT in Kuala Lumpur later this month to discuss matters related to fishermen including the budget allocation.
