Training of Trainers: Sustainable Harvesting of Shellfish
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Coastal resilience
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Coastal wetland conservation
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Healthy Wetland Nature
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Natural infrastructure solutions
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Vibrant Coasts and Deltas
On 9 November 2025, Wetlands International successfully organised a full-day Training of Trainers (ToT): Sustainable Harvesting on Shellfish, in partnership with the Fisheries Research Institute – Department of Fisheries (FRI-DOF). The program brought together the local community of Tanjung Kepah, many of whom rely heavily on hand-collecting shellfish as part of their daily livelihood.
This initiative is one of the key components under the Building with Nature (BwN) Tanjung Kepah Mangrove Action Project (TKMAP), aimed at strengthening local adaptive capacity in the face of climate change. As coastal resources become more vulnerable, sustainable harvesting practices are essential to ensure long-term ecosystem health and livelihood security.
The main objective of the program was to enhance local understanding and awareness on responsible and sustainable shellfish collection. Throughout the session, participants learned about:
- Biological morphology of shellfish species found along the coastal and mangrove mudflats
- Rules and regulations related to shellfish harvesting in Peninsular Malaysia
- Market potential and trends for shellfish products
- Development of community-based sustainable shellfish farming (Exploration)
Aligned with the BwN TKMAP tagline, “Planting Hope, Reaping Sustenance” (Menanam Harapan, Menuai Rezeki) this program aspires to equip the community with the knowledge and skills needed to protect their natural resources while improving their economic resilience. With the right understanding and stewardship, sustainable shellfish farming and harvesting can continue to support both livelihoods and coastal ecosystem health for generations to come.
