TOKYO: Sarawak is exploring deeper technical cooperation with Japan to boost its research capability in sustainable aquaculture through engagements with the Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency (FRA), a national institution under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

The working visit was led by Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development, Dato Sri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom, who said the session provided an opportunity to observe how Japan integrates research, innovation and policy within a single national platform.

He noted that Japan’s model brings together expertise from multiple disciplines, sustaining close collaboration between academia, industry and government agencies.

“This experience is highly relevant to strengthening Sarawak’s research and training ecosystem in aquaculture and marine resources,” he said during the briefing.

Under Japan’s Fifth Medium Term Plan (2021–2025), FRA coordinates research activities, industry development and human capital programmes to support a stable seafood supply and national food security. It also plays an important role in developing skilled talent in marine science and fisheries engineering.

Japan currently employs more than 500 full-time researchers across its network, compared to Sarawak’s early-stage efforts with only five active researchers in the fisheries sector.

Dato Sri Dr. Stephen said the visit aligns with Sarawak’s long-term goal of developing a resilient aquaculture industry supported by evidence-based policy and specialised scientific capacity.

Also present were Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development Sarawak (Commodities and Regional Development) Datuk Martin Ben, and Director of the Sarawak Department of Agriculture, Dominic Chunggat. -UKASnews