KOTA KINABALU: A shrimp company in Sabah's east coast Tawau has become the first in Malaysia to receive an Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification, a globally recognised eco-label.
Sankina Aquaculture Sdn Bhd received the ASC certification after it worked with WWF Malaysia to put the Aquaculture Improvement Project (AIP) in place in 2019.
The AIP was supported by Marina Bay Sands and WWF-Singapore to assist aquaculture farms in achieving ASC certification and advancing their sustainability journey.
Under the programme, Sankina Aquaculture conducted restoration and preservation activities for the mangrove areas within and adjacent to their farm site, implementing strict protocol where wastewater is pre-treated to manage pollution and setting up systems to improve workers' welfare.
As a result of the mangrove preservation efforts, sightings of migratory birds surrounding the farm have increased, according to a WWF Malaysia statement on Monday (June 19).
Sakina also received support from the Sabah Fisheries Department leading the way for Sankina Aquaculture to be awarded the ASC certification, making it the first shrimp farm in Malaysia to receive the globally recognised eco-label certification.
Sankina Aquaculture managing director Jenny Ou said the certification was a testimony for their ongoing efforts towards sustainability and responsible business practices.
"This recognition is a testament to our deep commitment to preserving the planet and ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
“Achieving ASC certification is a significant milestone in our journey towards sustainability," she said.
Global Lead ASC Improver Programme's Roy van Daatselaar hoped that the certification would inspire other farms to follow on a similar "improvement pathway”.
Meanwhile, WWF Malaysia chief executive officer Sophia Lim said aquaculture development can thrive when managed carefully without causing harm to the environment, especially in vulnerable mangrove areas in Malaysia.
