Abstract

The state of Sabah in Eastern Malaysia has the largest coastal area in the country and it is known for its rich coral reef ecosystem. Sabah is one of the poorer states in Malaysia, and its fishers are among its poorest population. Several studies indicate that the livelihoods of poor fisher households are vulnerable to social, ecological, and governance factors. Illegal and destructive fishing activities, lack of enforcement of fisheries regulation, poor infrastructure, and inequitable access to livelihood assets, are all factors that harm small-scale fisheries.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 virus started in Malaysia in March 2020. The government imposed the Movement Control Order (MCO) to curb against the pandemic in Malaysia by limiting movement across the country. The fish and tourism sectors were severely disrupted by the MCO.

A study was initiated with the objective to explore the impacts of COVID-19 on the livelihoods of smallscale fisher households during the MCO. Data were obtained from 30 selected artisanal fishers from the Semporna and Kudat districts in Sabah. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for the study by way of an online google survey. Interviews were carried out through telephone and the conversations were recorded for detailed information.

The result of the study indicated that fishers’ income had dropped significantly due to low fish price, limited access to the market and lack of employment opportunities. Also, the demand for fish was limited as the hotels and tourism activities were closed. Following the study, the recommendationsfor policies that facilitate adaptive responses to reduce vulnerability and enhance viability are made.