Fishermen in the waters of Port Dickson are seeking improvements to jetty facilities, enhanced goods storage, and an increase in the cost of living allowance in the Budget 2025. The fishing sector, which serves as the backbone of the coastal community's economy, requires effective initiatives to boost sea catch yields, ensuring the survival and well-being of fishermen. Rozali Abd Rahim, a 58-year-old fisherman, said that the fishing community in Port Dickson hopes the federal or state government will provide adequate jetty facilities to facilitate more efficient fishing activities. With 15 years of experience in the field, he noted that improved jetty facilities would allow fishermen to store their equipment, including boats, nets, and other fishing gear, while also protecting them from adverse weather and potential damage. 'In addition, I hope that Budget 2025 will offer financial assistance to fishermen aged 40 and above. Previously, such assistance was only available to young fishermen, and I hope thi s time it will be extended beyond that age limit,' he told Bernama. Bukit Palong fishermen chief, S. Sugumaran, 53, emphasised that one of the most pressing needs of the fishing community in his area is an additional storage facility. This would enable fishermen to store their nets and other essential equipment more securely. He noted that there is currently a storage hut with just five rooms, which must accommodate the needs of 11 fishermen in the area. Similarly, another fisherman, Karim Daud, expressed his hope that the government will increase the cost of living allowance for fishermen in light of rising goods prices. Meanwhile, Negeri Sembilan Fisheries Department director Kasim Tawe expressed hope that the upcoming budget to include comprehensive planning and allocations that support initiatives aimed at enhancing the fishing economy in the state. He highlighted that ongoing programmes, such as the deployment of fish collection devices, mangrove tree planting, and the continuous release of fish and crab seedlings into the waters of Port Dickson, are crucial for boosting the local seafood economy. 'We hope to receive increased allocations this time to conduct activities aimed at boosting yields. 'This funding is not solely for departmental use; instead, we reinvest it into the community by organising various programmes to support fishermen in the state, thereby empowering the available fisheries resources," he stated. He noted that this year, an allocation of RM800,000 was secured to implement development programmes for the Fisheries Department statewide. He added that the government's ongoing efforts have contributed to Port Dickson emerging as a significant contributor to the state's overall fishery production, which reached 502.6 metric tonnes, generating a total fish production value of RM10.42 million last year. Source: BERNAMA News Agency