CHALLENGES TO SUSTAINABLE SMALL-SCALE FISHERY IN PANGKOR ISLAND: A PERSPECTIVE FROM COASTAL FISHERMEN

Abstract

This study focuses on the challenges faced by small-scale coastal fishermen in Pangkor island. Pangkor island is known among locals for its duty-free goods, coastal activities, fresh sea produce and fisheries products. The seafront is mostly lined with fishing jetties, bustling to supply fish for both local and international markets. Over the years, this fishing community felt the declining of fish resources due to various reasons. The purpose of this study is to explore the factors that contribute to the decline of fishes in the area and challenges faced by small-scale coastal fishermen from the perspective of both commercial and small-scale fishermen. Through in-depth interviews with 15 coastal fishermen, this study found that overfishing is the largest threat to the sustainability of small-scale fishery industry in Pangkor. Other reasons include coastal development, reclamation activities, water pollution, preference to foreign workers, lack of capital, high maintenance expenses, culture and lifestyle changes, climate change and being side-lined by the government. In response, this paper proposes solutions based on fishermen’s perspective that could be considered for better small-scale fisheries governance and future sustainability of Pangkor’s fishery industry.