Fish for the People Vol.23 No.1

Abstract

This first issue of Fish for the People in 2025 features the key achievements of the Japanese Trust Fund (JTF) 6-2 projects implemented by SEAFDEC from 2020 to 2024, which are categorized into three pillars, namely: Pillar I. Strengthening the promotion of sustainable fisheries in Southeast Asia; Pillar II. Promotion of sustainable aquaculture and resources enhancement in Southeast Asia, and Pillar III. Promotion of sustainable development of inland fisheries in Southeast Asia. Under the project “Responsible Fishing Technology and Practices,” a study was conducted in the Gulf of Thailand using M.V. Plalung to confirm the benefits of V-shaped otter boards during trawl fishing operations to assess catch quantity, fuel efficiency, and CO2 emissions. The study implied that V-shaped otter boards offer the potential for high yields and efficiency; however, careful application is required to balance environmental impacts and operational costs.

Gender equality in inland fisheries was promoted across Southeast Asia under the projects “Management Scheme of Inland Fisheries in the Southeast Asian Region” and “Sustainable Management of Anguillid Eel Fisheries in Southeast Asian Region.” The two Projects promoted inclusive and equitable inland fisheries policies by engaging women in fisheries-related decision-making and management, involving women in practical tasks such as water quality monitoring and resource management, and providing training to ensure that women have the skills and knowledge to contribute to sustainable inland fisheries management.

In Cambodia, blood cockle (Tegillarca granosa) is a vital food source and income for coastal communities. Under the project “Sustainable Utilization of Fisheries Resources and Resources