Big fish: Laja’s grandson Izan Zaini holding a mature empurau.
SIBU: Farmer Munan Laja is the go-to man for the empurau fish, the most expensive fish in the country.
“Response to my empurau every Chinese New Year has always been very good, despite the price,” said Laja, who started this venture in 2014.
He believes that due to the Chinese name for this rare freshwater fish, the community folks, especially those who have deep pockets, will choose to have this delectable dish during the celebration.
The fish is also known as wang bu liao, Chinese for “unforgettable”).
The fish is best served steamed due to its unique, sweet flavour and creamy, fatty texture.
Laja’s empurau is readily available, unlike those in the upper reaches of the Batang Rajang that are rarely caught by fishermen.
His pond-reared empurau is sold at RM500 per kg for those weighing between 2kg and 5kg.
Laja, 60, explained that his price is reasonable as the fish takes a long time to reach maturity.
“My six ponds are hygienically kept with oxygen supplied by the pumping system 24 hours a day. I have a generator set on standby in case of blackouts,” he added.
The fish are fed with carrots and engkabang (illipe nuts).
“Carrots are the best because they help cleanse the body of toxins.”
Laja’s customers in Kuching receive their fish in plastic bags filled with water and oxygen that last up to 10 hours.
