BELURAN: Terusan Sugut is a pale shadow of the days when it was a vibrant trading post. There was a time when the island supplied venison, resin, beeswax, spices and even timber to others. But this ended when many families moved to the mainland. Today, there are only 100 fishing families on the island. Dandan Oyong said the only activity left for the local populace was fishing which provided an adequate living. "Everyone catches or sells fish for a living. "This is a far cry from the old days when we supplied a variety of forest products and seafood to others."
Beluran Member of Parliament Datuk Ronald Kiandee said the rapid development on the mainland would not affect the island. "Terusan Sugut will remain significant. Despite its laidback surroundings and lifestyle, the island is a vital link for many fishing villages in remote locations.
"The presence of two residents as fish wholesalers also helps keep the economy strong," Kiandee said. Seafood still fetches a reasonable price with garoupa, mangrove jacks, billet and prawns sold between RM3 and RM8 per kilogramme. However, the wholesalers are facing competition from those who buy in bulk at coastal villages.
Beluran Member of Parliament Datuk Ronald Kiandee said the rapid development on the mainland would not affect the island. "Terusan Sugut will remain significant. Despite its laidback surroundings and lifestyle, the island is a vital link for many fishing villages in remote locations.
"The presence of two residents as fish wholesalers also helps keep the economy strong," Kiandee said. Seafood still fetches a reasonable price with garoupa, mangrove jacks, billet and prawns sold between RM3 and RM8 per kilogramme. However, the wholesalers are facing competition from those who buy in bulk at coastal villages.
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