This book investigates the pervasive exploitation of marine fishermen in Malaysia and critically examines whether co-operatives offer a viable solution to this systemic issue. The authors, a diverse group of academics and researchers, draw upon extensive fieldwork and data analysis to explore the economic, social, and political factors contributing to the vulnerability of Malaysian fishermen. Their argument centers on the potential of co-operative structures to empower these workers, improve their bargaining power, and ensure fairer distribution of profits within the fishing industry.

This work is likely to be of significant interest to scholars and policymakers concerned with labor rights, resource management, and development economics in Southeast Asia. The multi-author approach suggests a comprehensive examination of the complex issues surrounding the Malaysian fishing industry. The focus on co-operatives as a potential solution indicates a practical and solutions-oriented perspective, aiming to inform both academic discourse and on-the-ground interventions.