World Aquaculture 29 Some varieties of the Discus fish Table 1. Targeted increase in aquaculture production (t) according to the Third National Agricultural Policy and the projected required aquafeed input (t). Product 2006/07+ 2010* Requirement for aquafeed# Freshwater fish/prawn 70,064 123,499 173,000 Marine shrimp 70,000 150,777 225,000 Marine fish 25,000 84,448 203,000 Bivalves 53,494 148,834 0 Total production About 210,000 About 507,558 About 601,000 Ornamentals 558 million pieces 860 million pieces Ad hoc basis Seaweed (dry weight) 15,000 95,000 0 +Data based on industry estimates and DOF in 2007. *Targeted aquaculture production figures have been recently revised by the DOF. #Estimated based on various feed conversion ratios. organizations have embarked on several large scale projects, introduced policies to stimulate growth and mobilized funds. Some of these new developments are: • A total of 330,200 ha of land and water bodies have been identified for aquaculture development, of which 35,000 ha are expected to be developed by 2010. The demarcation of these areas is: inland areas = 105,000 ha, open seas = 100,000 ha, coastal areas = 28,000 ha, lakes and impounded water bodies = 90,000 ha and protected coastal areas (e.g. lagoons) = 7,200 ha. • The introduction of the concept of Aquaculture Industrial Zones (AIZ) is designed to encourage easier planning and organizing of the aquaculture industry thereby minimizing conflicts with other industries. To date, about 49 zones have been delineated and covered about 28,000 ha nationwide involving a total investment of RM1.6 billion. • Development of standards for sustainable aquaculture practices which are compatible with the environment include the formulation of appropriate legislation and codes of practice for aquaculture. A national fish health management program for Malaysia that is of international standards has also been established. • In terms of funding, AgroBank provides micro-credit scheme with a maximum loan of RM20,000 without collateral. Fund for Food (3F) provided by AgroBank (RM1.5 billion) for applicants with collateral who can apply for low interest loans of between RM10,000 to RM10 million. Various tax incentives such as tax-free status for the first five years in certain pioneer sectors, tax exemptions for agricultural machinery, investment tax allowances, etc. are also provided. • Introduction of suitable modern technology, mechanization and training of locals are some measures taken by the Department of Fisheries, Malaysia, to increase mariculture production. Intensive research is being conducted on the artificial propagation of various groupers and snappers to meet anticipated higher fingerlings demand from the local mariculture industry. • Initiatives for scientific and intellectual development in Lutianus johnii fingerlings
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