Securing global food resources is of paramount importance, and aquaculture stands as a pivotal contributor to this endeavour . This presentation sheds light on the indispensable role of genetic enhancement in augmenting aquaculture production, with a focus on the 20-year journey of a selective breeding program targeting key traits in Asian seabass. Initiated in 2004 in Singapore, the program harnessed a comprehensive approach, integrating conventional selective breeding, molecular parentage analysis, marker-assisted selection, and genomic selection. A robust broodstock comprising 549 individuals sourced from the wilds of Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore laid the foundation for this ambitious undertaking. Through four generations of family-based selection, the program successfully established three elite lines of Asian seabass, each comprising approximately 200 broodfish. These lines were meticulously chosen for their enhanced growth, elevated omega-3 content, and bolstered disease resistance. Notably, these improvements were achieved without compromising genetic diversity. The presentation will delve into the transformative impact of these elite lines on local seafood production, as they have been seamlessly integrated into commercial practices. The speaker will provide insights into the status of the 20-year breeding program, highlighting the strides made in genetic improvement for Asian seabass. Moreover, the presentation will explore the future directions envisaged for advancing the genetic potential of this crucial aquaculture species.