THE FISH PROCESSING INDUSTRY IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

Fish is important in the diet of Malaysians and most ASEAN countries; it provides approximately 49 percent of the total animal protein consumed and 12 percent of the total protein intake. The avail-ability of fish depends on the number of boats and quantity of fish caught per boat. However, the losses due to poor handlhg, transportation, storage and related facilities could easily amount t o approximately 30 percent of the total landing. Fishery products and methods of processing are considered. The status of existing technology is also assessed, although this is difficult due to the rapid expansion and development of certain sectors of the industry. The growth of the processing and utilization industry has increased the need for improved technology and consequently research and development is needed to support the growth of the industry