Fish Purchasing Behavior and Implications for Promoting Sustainable Consumption: A Malaysian Case

Fish Purchasing Behavior and Implications for Promoting Sustainable Consumption: A Malaysian Case

Purpose: Motivated by the fact that Malaysians fish consumption patterns and preferences have raised sustainability concerns, this study aims to understand the key entry points to promote sustainable consumption and increased uptake of sustainably sourced fish among Malaysian consumers. This is achieved by exploring the individual determinants of Malaysian consumers’ fish purchasing behaviors and their subjective and objective knowledge of fish. Research design, data, and methodology: A survey was conducted using interviewled questionnaire on 250 consumers in selected Malaysian populations recruited via street-intercept random sampling. Results: Findings confirmed the homogeneous societal culture of fish consumption amongst Malaysians. Females and consumers with advanced degree are found to be potentially effective primary targets of sustainable consumption interventions. Future interventions should consider the solutions to the low health and sustainability literacies among Malaysian consumers, and limited availability, accessibility, and affordability of sustainable options in Malaysia. Conclusion: The study findings provide new insights for the multisectoral stakeholders in the region working on promoting sustainable fish consumption and sustainable fisheries in general.