Top Malaysia Fish Catches

Malaysia’s fishing industry is a vital sector, supporting coastal communities and contributing significantly to the national economy. The country’s extensive coastline, rich mangroves, and productive waters in the South China Sea and Straits of Malacca make it one of Southeast Asia’s leading fish producers. Top fish catches in Malaysia include species such as mackerel (ikan kembung), anchovy (ikan bilis), pomfret, sardines, and threadfin bream, alongside high-value species like grouper and snapper. The industry has deep historical roots, with traditional fishing methods practiced by Malay, Chinese, and indigenous communities for centuries. Since the mid-20th century, modernization and the introduction of trawlers have expanded commercial catches, though concerns about overfishing and sustainability have prompted recent efforts to regulate and diversify the sector, including the growth of aquaculture.

Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.