Pertamina Adds 30 Gas Stations for the Sea Fisheries Industry in Remote Areas, Aruna Ready to Support

The progress of Indonesia’s sea fisheries industry is not solely the responsibility of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) or the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment (Kemenko Marves). It is a collective responsibility of the government, industry players, and the wider community. The cross-ministerial support that can enhance synergy and positive outcomes demonstrates our joint commitment to the advancement of the marine and fisheries sectors. One appreciable cross-ministerial support is the initiative of the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry to add Special Gas Stations (SPBU) specifically for the convenience of fishermen in venturing out to sea.

State-Owned Enterprises Ministry Supports the Progress of the Sea Fisheries Industry through Various Programs

“Based on our discussions, there will be four upcoming programs. God willing, this becomes our duty as assistants to the president, to ensure that the government’s efforts today will benefit the Indonesian people,” said Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, Erick Thohir, after a meeting with Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono. The synergy between the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry and KKP is a manifestation of the commitment of both ministries to develop the blue economy and advance the sea fisheries industry in Indonesia.

Downstreaming Natural Resources Must be Done for the Nation’s Progress

Erick revealed that Indonesia’s territory consists of 75% ocean and only 25% land. With the abundant marine natural resources, Indonesia must manage them effectively to contribute to economic growth. One important step, according to Erick, is the downstreaming of these resources. “Don’t let other countries exploit Indonesia’s natural resources and boost their own economic growth. We have a large market,” he emphasized.

Additional Gas Stations at Fishing Port Locations and Prosperous Fishing Villages

KKP will establish fishing ports and advanced fishing villages with the aim of improving the quality and productivity of fishermen’s lives and their families. Therefore, the Directorate General of Capture Fisheries of KKP has signed a cooperation agreement with PT Pertamina Patra Niaga regarding the Support for Oil and Gas Operations in Fishing Villages and Fishing Ports. Afian Nasution, CEO of Pertamina Patra Niaga, stated that there will be an addition of 30 more gas stations in 2023, following the operation of 387 dedicated gas stations for fishermen. Pertamina will ensure availability, accessibility, and affordable prices for domestic fishermen, allowing their catches to reach the market and meet the seafood demand in each region.

Various Collaborations Will be Forged between KKP and the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry

Trenggono also explained that in the implementation of the blue economy policy and the advancement of the sea fisheries industry, KKP requires synergy and collaboration from various parties, particularly in the development and management of marine and fisheries natural resources. Hence, the cooperation between KKP and the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry extends beyond the need for fuel supply, encompassing various other programs to be carried out under the Cooperation Agreement, prioritizing the implementation of sustainable fisheries.

Aruna is Ready to Support Government and State-Owned Enterprises Programs

The collaboration between KKP and the State-Owned Enterprises Ministry will support the opening of new fishing areas and zones developed by the government. Aruna hopes that this synergy will help fishermen achieve cost efficiency due to the special price subsidies provided by Pertamina. Aruna is also willing to assist the government in mapping the fuel needs of over 40,000 fishermen registered within Aruna Hub’s ecosystem spread across Indonesia. Optimizing internal aspects is expected to have a direct and indirect impact on accessing broader markets, including international markets. Moreover, with this policy, Aruna is committed to engaging more fishermen as working partners with vision, particularly regarding updates on government programs.