adminBACHOK, June 3 (Bernama) — Kelantan’s ornamental fish industry recorded a production value exceeding RM8 million from 2023 to 2025, with a total output of 468,673 fish of various species.
Kelantan Fisheries Department director Ismail Ibrahim said the main species bred by local breeders are guppy, betta, and molly, which continue to enjoy strong demand in the market.
He said to date, there are 47 active ornamental fish entrepreneurs across the state, in Kota Bharu, Bachok, Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah, Jeli, Tumpat, Gua Musang and Kuala Krai.
“This achievement proves that the ornamental fish industry has strong potential as one of the aquaculture segments capable of generating income for entrepreneurs and contributing to the state’s economic growth,” he told reporters after the opening and closing ceremony of the Kelantan Ornamental Fish and Aquaculture Festival 2026 at Dataran Pantai Irama here today.
In light of the strong demand, Ismail encouraged more people, especially youths, to venture into ornamental fish breeding, which has promising prospects and good returns.
He said the industry can be run commercially on a large scale and is also suitable as a home-based business with lower capital compared to several other aquaculture segments.
“Ornamental fish have their own niche group of enthusiasts, and their value depends on species, size, colour and quality. In fact, certain species, such as arowana, can fetch thousands of ringgit per fish.
“Besides being sold as pets, ornamental fish also have a commercial value through participation in competitions and exhibitions that attract both local and international enthusiasts.
The Kelantan Ornamental Fish and Aquaculture Festival 2026, which runs for two days starting yesterday, brings together more than 80 participants and showcases over 300 species of ornamental fish.
— BERNAMA
