Just 25 minutes from the bustling town of Kota Bharu lies the serene and green village of Kampung Temila, a community that is quietly making waves in youth empowerment and rural sustainability. Recently, the village welcomed visitors, including Prof. Denison, James Ryan Raj, Ms. Shahida, and YB Nik Muhammad Zawawi, the Member of Parliament for Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, to witness a promising local initiative funded by APPGM-SDG (All-Party Parliamentary Group Malaysia on Sustainable Development Goals). The visit was held on the 26th October, 2025
The project, led by En. Nasir focuses on the breeding and cultivation of Patin fish—also known as Silver Catfish or Pangasius Catfish—within floating cages. A team of 10 young villagers is actively involved, learning the techniques of fish rearing from senior experts under En. Nasir’s mentorship. The initiative not only promotes intergenerational knowledge sharing but also provides the youth with an opportunity to earn a steady supplementary income.
According to En. Nasir, each young participant can earn between RM250 to RM350 monthly from the project. “This income helps them support their families while keeping them engaged in meaningful work within their own village,” he explained. “If not for this initiative, many of these young men would have migrated to Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru in search of jobs. Now, they are empowered to stay and contribute to their own community.”
The visit concluded with a “fish fiesta,” featuring an array of traditionally cooked Patin dishes prepared by the village women. The meal showcased not only the fruits of the project but also the warmth, hospitality, and unity of the Kampung Temila community.
What stood out most during the visit was the spirit of togetherness and collaboration—a reflection of how sustainable community projects can create lasting social and economic impact. Through efforts like this, Kampung Temila stands as a model of how local empowerment and knowledge transfer can help retain rural talent, drive economic resilience, and preserve the beauty of village life for generations to come.
