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Introduction
The Fisheries Research Institute (FRI) is one of the six branches within the organisation of the Department of Fisheries Malaysia. It was formally established in 1957 in tandem with the physical development of its premise at Gelugor, Penang. The main objective of FRI then was to undertake research on all aspects of fisheries resources and ecology. Later, the scope was expanded to include aquaculture. FRI has undergone major structural changes over the years, particularly with the establishment of branch centres around the country to carry out research on specialised disciplines of fisheries and aquaculture. Nonetheless, it remains as the only governmental research institute specifically focused on the aquatic environment. At present, FRI focuses on four major disciplines of research, namely fisheries resources, aquaculture, aquatic ecology and fisheries product & biotechnology.
With the greater emphasis accorded to the fisheries sector in recent years, the roles and resposibilities of FRI has increased accordingly. Moreover the area of fisheries resource exploitation has significantly expanded with the ratification of the Exclusive Economic Zone. To keep pace with this development, FRI has attempted to increase its capacity and capability, both physical and manpower. In physical terms, new facilities were provided when the headquarters was eventually moved from Gelugor to Batu Maung in 1995. Likewise, there have been major improvements in the research facilities offered at its branch centres. In terms of human resource development, many staff members of FRI were given the opportunity to pursue their post graduate studies. Nonetheless, much development is needed in this area.
Under the new NAP3 the fisheries sector, particularly the aquaculture sub-sector, is projected to undergo even more significant development. Hence, the role of fisheries R&D is undoubtedly crucial in the effort to boost the growth of the national fisheries sector, both to meet the national demand for fish as well as for export purposes.
Taking due cognizance of the strategies for fish production as outlined under the NAP3, the R&D efforts of FRI will be focused on three thrust areas, namely the development of management models and strategies for the sustainable exploitation of resources, development of appropriate technology for aquaculture and the development of post harvest technology.
Mission
To serve as the Centre of Excellence for Fisheries Research In Malaysia and To Provide Scientific and Technical Support for Sustainable Development and Management of Living Aquatic Resources.
Organisation of FRI
Fisheries Research Institute, Penang.
Fishery Resources Research Section
The main role of the Section of the institute is to conduct research on all aspects relating to fisheries resources so as to provide the necessary information and technical support for the rational development and management of the fisheries. From exploratory and monitoring surveys, new potential fishing grounds and species could be identified for development. Surveys are regularly carried out to support the formulation of effective fisheries management measures. The goal of rational development and effective management is to ensure that the fisheries resources in Malaysia are harvested in a sustained manner.
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