LABUAN, Oct 13 (Bernama) — Malaysia's tuna industry is fast emerging as a high-impact segment within the nation's fisheries sector, contributing significantly to the country's seafood output and maritime economy, said Deputy Minister ofAgriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup.
He said the industry encompasses a wide range of activities, from tuna catching and landing to processing, packaging, cold storage, and marketing, creating an extensive value chain that benefits local entrepreneurs and strengthens Malaysia's competitiveness in the global market.
"As one of the strategic sectors in maritime economic development, the tuna industry not only adds value to national marine resources but also generates income for local entrepreneurs, expands job opportunities, and enhances Malaysia 's standing in international trade," he said at the Welcoming Dinner for Participants Of the Labuan Tuna Conference 2025 held at the Financial Park Convention Hall tonight.
Arthur said the government remains committed to strengthening the tuna industry as part of the broader national fisheries agenda, ensuring sustainability, food security, and economic inclusivity across all maritime regions of the Country. He emphasised that the industry's success depends on effective collaboration between the federal and state agencies, the private sector, and local communities in developing value-added products and maintaining environmental balance.
He highlighted that Labuan plays a pivotal role as an emerging hub for the tuna industry, positioned strategically in the heart Of Borneo's maritime corridor. The island's development, he said, is not only designed to benefit the local community but also to generate economic spillover effects for neighbouring regions across Borneo.
He added that Labuan is progressing with a new focus on blue and circular economy strategies, which include the establishment of an integrated industrial park and improved telecommunication infrastructure, all aligned with Labuan's vision ofbecoming a "smart island." "These initiatives are expected to act as catalysts for regional economic growth while supporting strategic infrastructure projects such as the proposed bridge link, integrated ports, and modern logistics facilities," he said.
He highlighted that under the Labuan Structure Plan 2040 (RS Labuan 2040), the government has identified the strengthening of agriculture and fisheries as key pillars of food security, with tuna development forming part of Malaysia's new high-potential economic sector…
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