Fishy Business
By Puah Sze Ning
January 2013 PHOTO ESSAY
Kedah, with its vast paddy fields, may be better known as the rice bowl of Malaysia, but the state houses another industry crucial in feeding Malaysians a staple condiment – the anchovy (ikan bilis). Accounting for 45% of the entire Malaysian anchovy fleet, the majority of anchovy fishermen in the country are based in Kedah. With their wages being paid based on their catch for the day, the fishermen don't earn a whole lot despite the high risk and uncertainty...
Puah Sze Ning
has been working with Indigenous communities in
Malaysia for over 15 years, assisting in advocacy training, documentation and welfare aid. She is also an accomplished photographer.
