RM108m Boost for Fisherfolk as KO-NELAYAN Rolls Out 28 Projects Under 13MP

14 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU: KO-NELAYAN has been allocated RM108.49 million to implement eight programmes and 28 projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), in a move aimed at strengthening support for both marine and inland fishermen.

Sabah’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, Datuk Jamawi Jaafar, said the funding would deliver meaningful impact to fishing communities across the state by improving livelihoods and increasing income opportunities.

He also commended KO-NELAYAN for utilising about 90 per cent of its previous allocation of RM39.79 million, describing the spending performance as commendable and impactful through the successful implementation of various development projects.

Jamawi was speaking when officiating the KO-NELAYAN Appreciation Night 2026 at the Marriott Hotel Kota Kinabalu recently.

In his address, he urged heads of departments under the ministry to spend less time in the office and more time on the ground engaging with stakeholders.

“We must go into the field, resolve issues faced by our clients and assist them in optimising their efforts so they can raise their incomes,” he said.

Jamawi expressed hope that strong teamwork within KO-NELAYAN would continue to be reinforced to ensure sustained organisational excellence.

Reflecting on his nearly five years in office, he stressed that his tenure must translate into tangible gains for fishermen and farmers.

“There must be a clear and effective impact in helping them increase their income,” he said.

The minister added that the ministry is placing renewed emphasis on initiatives such as the Kitchen Garden Initiative, aimed at empowering communities beyond the provision of subsidies.

“The initiative is not merely about subsidies, but about encouraging participation by offering planting materials at the best possible discounts,” he explained.

He also invited the public to attend the Kitchen Garden Initiative programme in Tuaran, held from 14 to 15 February, which will be officiated by the Sabah Chief Minister.

Jamawi noted that he and his wife would be conducting a fruit tree grafting demonstration at Padang Istiadat, Tuaran, as part of the programme.

The Appreciation Night, he said, not only recognised staff contributions but also strengthened camaraderie within the organisation — a key pillar of service excellence.

During the ceremony, Jamawi presented the Jasamu Dikenang Award 2025 and the Excellent Service Award 2025 to selected recipients.