UNAIR NEWS 鈥 A total of 25 东京热 (UNAIR) students participating in the International Belajar Bersama Komunitas (BBK) Community Service Program in Sabah, Malaysia, visited the Fish and Crustacean Hatchery, a facility dedicated to breeding marine organisms such as fish and shrimp. Held on Wednesday (July 15, 2026), the visit aimed to broaden students鈥 understanding of hatchery technologies and breeding systems that support the development of modern aquaculture.
In recent years, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) has placed significant emphasis on advancing aquaculture. One of its key facilities is the hatchery, which plays an essential role in research, the production of high-quality seed stock, and supporting the needs of local communities and aquaculture farmers.
Observing fish broodstock management
During the visit, the students directly observed the management of fish broodstock, including feeding techniques, broodstock selection, and water quality management. Marine fish broodstock are fed trash fish three times a week, with feeding portions adjusted according to the requirements of each tank. The tanks are also separated based on fish species and size, while any uneaten feed is promptly removed to maintain water quality.
The students also learned about fish genetic improvement programs, particularly those involving grouper species. Superior broodstock are selectively bred to produce offspring with faster growth rates and greater disease resistance. 鈥淯MS is the first institution in the world to pioneer the Tiger Grouper Genetic Gain (TGGG) program,鈥 said Zul, one of the instructors at the fish hatchery.
The visit continued at the crustacean unit, where students learned about the use of Indian almond (ketapang) leaves in shrimp farming, daily water pH monitoring, and the preparation of high-protein egg custard as supplementary feed for shrimp. They also had the opportunity to sort shrimp according to size, an important stage in aquaculture management that ensures uniform growth, reduces competition for feed, and minimizes the risk of cannibalism.
鈥淪hrimp farming requires proper environmental management. Therefore, we monitor water pH every day and prepare high-protein supplementary feed to ensure optimal seed growth,鈥 explained Herman, a staff member at the IPMB UMS crustacean hatchery.
This activity supports SDG 14: Life Below Water, particularly Target 14.a by enhancing scientific knowledge, strengthening capacity, and promoting technology transfer in marine science and aquaculture. It also contributes to Target 14.2 by introducing aquaculture practices that prioritize water quality and sustainable ecosystem management, as well as Target 14.7 by increasing understanding of the hatchery鈥檚 role in producing high-quality seed stock that supports aquaculture productivity and improves the livelihoods of fish farmers.
The program enhanced students鈥 knowledge and awareness of the importance of hatchery technology, superior broodstock selection, and environmental management in producing high-quality seed stock while preserving aquatic ecosystems. It is expected that this experience will equip students to apply and promote sustainable aquaculture practices in Indonesia, contributing to the development of a productive, responsible, and environmentally sustainable fisheries sector in line with the objectives of SDG 14.
Author: Nayyara Zafira, Herlianeka Pratiwi
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
