Quality of Life (QoL) of Fishermen in the West Coast States of Peninsular Malaysia

This study aims to identify factors contributing to the quality of life (QoL) of the fishing community on the West Coast States of Peninsular Malaysia namely Selangor, Perak, Kedah and Johor. It also aims to determine challenges affecting the QoL of the community. This study employed a mixed methodology which combined two methods of research; quantitative and qualitative. Structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) were used to obtain data. A total of 306 respondents answered the questionnaire and 24 respondents participated in four different groups of FGD. Correlation analysis showed indicators of income, savings, housing, family surroundings and fishing equipment contributed to the enhancement of QoL among fishermen on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Qualitative analysis indicated the challenges faced by the fishermen, which affected their QoL were competition with foreign fishermen and lack of artificial reefs to increase the number of fish in the fishing spots where coastal fishermen are focusing. Qualitative analysis through FGD found that all of the respondents were satisfied with their QoL despite the challenges they have to face in their life.