TOKYO: Research initiatives by the Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency (FRA) have provided valuable insights into science-based fisheries management, high-value aquaculture breeding and marine ecosystem forecasting as Sarawak seeks to improve sustainability measures in its waters.

Delegates from Sarawak were briefed on ongoing studies involving fish stock assessment in Japanese and international waters, selective breeding of species such as tuna and Japanese eel, sustainable fish feed development and disease control measures to ensure seafood safety.

FRA outlined its data-driven management model, which integrates satellite information, dynamic ocean modelling and research collaboration with coastal communities to anticipate ecosystem shifts and predict catch trends.

Sarawak also expressed interest in Japan’s strategy to manage invasive fish species that threaten local biodiversity.

Concerns were raised over non-native Amazonian fish entering river systems in Sarawak and disrupting native populations.

Sarawak Minister for Food Industry, Commodities and Regional Development, Dato Sri Dr. Stephen Rundi Utom said knowledge exchange with Japan opens opportunities for short-term training under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), particularly for officers and researchers involved in aquaculture technology.

The delegation was additionally introduced to the National Fisheries University operated under FRA, which offers technical training and academic programmes in marine science, seafood processing and fisheries engineering for students and professionals.

He said the collaborative exposure further contributes to Sarawak’s long-term efforts to build skilled talent, enhance industry resilience and protect marine resources.

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