Towards Nature Positive Aquaculture: The Case Study of Sankina Aquaculture

World Wide Fund for Nature, Malaysia, . (2025) Towards Nature Positive Aquaculture: The Case Study of Sankina Aquaculture. [Research Paper]

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Abstract

he aquaculture industry holds great promise for future food security and economic development. However, engaging in unsustainable practices can lead to significant environmental impacts, such as habitat loss, pollution, and social welfare concerns. While the stringent criteria of sustainability certification help farms demonstrate responsible approaches to these challenges, meeting these standards can often be an overwhelming hurdle for many. Recognising these challenges, WWF-Malaysia launched the Aquaculture Improvement Project (AIP) in 2014. This stepwise approach aims to enhance aquaculture practices by fostering partnerships with aquaculture farms. Aligned with the principles of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Certification, the AIP emphasises environmental sustainability, social welfare, and supply chain traceability, supporting farms in their journey toward responsible aquaculture. An example of this approach is Sankina Aquaculture Sdn Bhd, based in Tawau and specialising in Pacific whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) farming, which became an AIP partner with WWF-Malaysia in 2019. Within three years, a series of improvements based on assessments of the environmental and social impacts of the farming operation were conducted. In addition to the AIP, Sankina has also strengthened the biosecurity of the farm through Malaysia Good Aquaculture Practices (MYGAP) introduced by the Department of Fisheries Malaysia. Sankina's commitment to sustainability has manifested in noteworthy changes, including improved waste management, enhanced social welfare within the farm and neighbouring communities, mangrove conservation efforts, and increased migratory bird sightings on the premises. The culmination of these sustainable practices led to Sankina's recognition, receiving MYGAP and becoming the first shrimp farm in Malaysia to be awarded ASC certification in 2022 and 2023, respectively. This collaborative effort signifies a crucial step towards fostering environmentally conscious and socially responsible aquaculture practices, demonstrating the positive impact of initiatives like the AIP in transforming the aquaculture landscape. Additionally, it opens doors to tap into emerging sustainable seafood markets.

Item Type:	Research Paper
Creators:	World Wide Fund for Nature, Malaysia, .
Title:	Towards Nature Positive Aquaculture: The Case Study of Sankina Aquaculture
Date:	2025
Location:	World Wide Fund for Nature, Malaysia Website
Publication:	World Wide Fund for Nature, Malaysia
Physical Description:	14p.
Agency Name:	Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
Date Deposited:	07 Aug 2026 01:40
Last Modified:	07 Aug 2026 01:40
URI:	http://myagric.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/24607

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