Aruna Answers Fisheries Market Industry Challenges With Downstream

In carrying out one of KKP’s important tasks to build and integrate the community-based marine and fisheries business processes through the optimization of marine and fisheries resources utilization, one of KKP’s routine activities is a dialogue event called “Bincang Bahari” (Marine Chat).

In the recent “Bincang Bahari” event held by KKP at the end of February with the theme “Mapping the Marine and Fisheries Sector Amid the Global Recession Issue,” the government involved the presence of domestic marine and fisheries industry players. Aruna, as one of the fisheries companies positioning itself as an integrated fisheries commerce and supply chain aggregator in Indonesia, also participated in this “Bincang Bahari” event. Aruna was represented by Utari Octavianty, Co-Founder, and Chief Sustainability Officer of Aruna.

Aruna: The Answer to Fisheries Market Industry Challenges is Downstreaming and Optimization

The marine and fisheries industry in Indonesia is recognized by the world to have tremendous potential. It depends on how our country can utilize this maritime potential as an answer to challenges and market competition amid the global crisis. As per the theme of this “Bincang Bahari,” mapping is essential to obtain real data on the conditions of the domestic and global fisheries market industry. The government’s strategy to use downstreaming as a way to address industry challenges is seen by Aruna as a proper step.
Utari stated, “Downstreaming is a positive thing that will undoubtedly add value to Indonesia’s fisheries industry. Additionally, businesses must be interconnected to support the realization of downstreaming. At Aruna, we fully support this effort, including optimizing the fishermen’s catch results and presenting diversified Aruna fishermen’s catch commodities according to market needs.”

“Ir. Ishartini, Director-General of Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fisheries Products (Ditjen PDSPKP), expressed, “Good planning strategies can minimize the impact of uncertain conditions. Supported by Indonesia’s current government focus, especially the downstreaming strategy, it is expected that the fisheries and marine industries can continue to grow, considering that the fisheries sector is one of the government’s eight focus sectors.”

Industry Players Must Be Astute in Creating Potential in the Domestic Market

Aruna believes that amid the global recession’s impact on the fisheries market industry, businesses operating in the fisheries and marine sectors must have the ability to discern which products are suitable for export and which are not. The astuteness to create potential in the domestic market must be practiced by business players, not only to drive the economy but also to contribute to increasing the consumption of fish by the Indonesian people, thereby improving their nutritional health.
Aruna’s strategy of always utilizing appropriate technology in implementing sustainable fisheries and improving the supply chain aligns with the government’s steps. In response to this, Ishartini revealed, “We are also striving for downstreaming, which is supported by adequate logistics infrastructure, especially for the end-to-end supply chain, particularly for fishery products.”

Aruna Empowers Small-Scale Fishermen

As Utari stated earlier, designing downstreaming strategies that can connect all players in the fisheries industry will be one of the solutions to ensure that the supply chain of fishery products can be optimally utilized. This involves everyone from fishermen, distributors, seafood suppliers to retail and wholesale consumers. Through the collaborative ecosystem of fisheries players in Aruna Hub, Aruna will continuously assist the government’s strategy to advance the industry and the communities involved in the marine and fisheries world.
“We remain committed to empowering more small-scale fishermen. This is done through empowering fishermen and coastal communities by conducting regular educational programs on marine preservation, financial literacy, policy compliance, and many others,” Utari emphasized.

KKP Develops IMIP Technology for the Advancement of Indonesian Fisheries, Aruna Holds an Outreach Program

Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, held a meeting with Lars Bo Larsen, the Danish Ambassador, and Anne Marie, the Ambassador of Technology Denmark, at the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) in early 2023. The important topic discussed during the meeting was the development of the new Integrated Maritime Intelligent Platform (IMIP) satellite technology, officially launched by KKP to strengthen Indonesia’s fisheries surveillance system based on technology.

Vast Sea Area Poses Challenges for Surveillance

Indonesia has an extensive maritime territory, making satellite technology essential for KKP to monitor fishing resources within Indonesian jurisdictional waters. This helps prevent illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF), which negatively impacts the ecosystem and domestic fishing industry. Trenggono emphasized the importance of the environment and the well-being of fishermen, stating that the implementation of IMIP is crucial to provide fishermen with real-time updates and information.

KKP Opens Technological Collaboration Options to Strengthen Indonesian Fisheries

“On the coast, there are many challenges. The 2-mile stretch from the coast is a highly vulnerable area with many conflicts. The area includes seagrass and mangroves. With this technology, monitoring can be optimized,” Trenggono explained. His efforts to establish technological collaborations with friendly nations were appreciated by Ambassador Lars Bo Larsen as a suitable step to enhance surveillance technology to ensure sustainable fisheries and combat IUUF activities. Lars Bo Larsen also acknowledged that surveillance technology is one of the solutions to promote a healthy marine ecosystem and a productive Indonesian fisheries sector.

The development of IMIP, also known as the Command Center, is expected to detect vessel profiles and movements passing through Indonesian waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone. The system can also detect vessel administrative details, including Fishing Permits (SIPI). This technology will aid the government in advancing Indonesian fisheries and implementing a measured quota-based fishing program with regulated fishing quotas and zones.

IMIP Satellite Functionality Will Continue to Be Developed by KKP

The satellite technology developed by KKP in collaboration with Denmark will be continuously improved. This strengthening of satellite technology aims to reaffirm KKP’s commitment to sustainable marine management, supporting economic growth, improving the well-being of communities, and preserving the ecosystem’s health. Additionally, the Command Center’s presence will help monitor water conditions for oil spills and oversee the sustainability of coastal ecosystems, including the health of coral reefs and mangrove forests.

Aruna, as a fisheries company prioritizing the appropriate use of technology for advancing Indonesian fisheries, will continue to support KKP’s positive efforts in preserving ecology while promoting the welfare of fishermen. With Aruna’s connection to over 40,000 fishermen throughout Indonesia through the Local Hero and Aruna Hub programs, two-way communication efforts have been conducted to address illegal and overfishing practices through regular programs like the Aruna Fishermen’s Gathering (Sarasehan). It is hoped that in the future, fisheries products supplied to domestic and global markets will be free from IUUF practices.

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.

Let’s Get to Know about Aruna Fisher 001!

Fishers in Indonesia usually hold various activities that are important for coastal life and contribute to the country’s fisheries sector growth. They are not only workers but also guardians of the sustainability of marine resources who support food security in the country. The existence of fishing villages and fishing villages along the coastline of Indonesia is clear evidence of how fishers play a role at the frontline in the fishing industry.

One of the main roles of fishers is to catch fish. With the skills and experiences they have, fishers are able to read natural signs, understand fish seasons, and discover rich fish habitats. They use Indonesian fishing boats to get into the ocean, catch fish with fishing nets, rods, or other friendly fishing tools. This activity contributes significantly to increasing Indonesia’s marine products.

Fishers also play an important role in maintaining the sustainability of marine resources. They fish responsibly by paying attention to the size of the fish caught, guarding against endangered species, and adhering to established fishing rules. In addition, Indonesian fishers’ associations play an important role in advocating for the interests of fishers and ensuring the sustainability of the fisheries sector.

Fishers also have a direct impact on the social and economic life of coastal communities. Fishers’ villages become the centers of economic activity, where fishers sell their catch to traders or fish processors. The income earned from working as fishers allows them to make ends meet, send their children to school, and even improve their standard of living by owning their own boat.

The importance of the role of fishers in increasing Indonesian marine products cannot be underestimated. By actively involving fishers in the management of marine resources, through programs and policies that support them, fish catches can be increased sustainably. This effort involves cooperation between the government, fishers’ associations, and related institutions to ensure the sustainability and welfare of fishers.

The story of Pak Moko, a blue swimming crab fisher from Tanjung Batu-Berau who joined Aruna in 2018, shows how important transparency and economic benefits are gained through engaging in platforms like Aruna. By strengthening the relationship between fishers and markets, through price transparency and access to international markets, fishers feel a positive impact on their income and future.

In the context of Indonesian fishers’ lives, their roles are very diverse and essential. From responsible fishing to the resulting economic and social contributions, fishers play an important role in maintaining the sustainability of the fishing sector, increasing marine products, and promoting the well-being of coastal communities.

Pak Moko is a blue swimming crab fisher who has joined Aruna since 2018. Since becoming part of Aruna, he has been actively involved in various activities organized by the company, such as training, knowledge sharing, and certification. His achievements are no less brilliant, he won the title of Aruna’s Best Fisher and Fisher with the Most Transactions. In addition, Pak Moko also attended various training sessions, including training on blue swimming crab apartments and sustainable fisheries, including the use of environmentally friendly fishing gear.

As a blue swimming crab fisher, Pak Moko’s daily life begins with preparing fishing gear, checking boat engines, and making sure the fuel is full tanik. Before going to sea, he says goodbye to his wife and brings a lunch box prepared by his wife. Mr. Moko is then ready to go to sea, cast a net, and hopes that the net will be filled to the brim with blue swimming crabs at night. The next day, he will return to the sea to check the net that has been filled with crabs, while choosing the crabs of the correct size, and releasing the small crabs so that they can keep on growing.

The role of fishers in the Indonesian fishing industry is very important. They are at the forefront of maintaining and utilizing marine resources sustainably. As fishers, they supply their catches to domestic and international markets. They also act as actors of the local economy, especially in fishing villages and coastal villages, where fishers are often the economic backbone of local communities.

In Indonesia, fishers’ associations, such as the Indonesian Fisher Association, have an important role in representing and protecting the interests of fishers. They play a role in policy advocacy that supports fishers, facilitates training and skills development of fishers, and improves fishers’ access to wider markets.

In increasing Indonesia’s marine products, the role of fishers is very significant. They not only fish sustainably, but also maintain the sustainability and sustainability of marine resources. With knowledge and understanding of the size of fish that can be caught, fishers like Pak Moko play a role in keeping fish populations. Through these efforts, fishers contribute to ensuring that Indonesian marine products can continue to be abundant.

Aruna as a company is strongly committed to supporting the lives of fishers in Indonesia. They embrace more fishers in the Aruna Fisher family and create a wider fishery commodity market, both at the domestic and international levels. With a clear vision and mission and a strong commitment, Aruna and Indonesian fishers work together to make the sea a better livelihood for all.

Balancing Marine Spatial Planning, East Java Tops the Ranking

The Government of the Republic of Indonesia places blue economy as the forefront of marine spatial planning, and this is specifically regulated in Government Regulation Number 21 of 2021 regarding spatial planning implementation. Certainly, the blue economy and the implementation of the sustainable fisheries concept are two inseparable aspects, considering that the blue economy prioritizes the sustainability of marine ecosystems in order to develop the marine economy sector.

“This regulation stipulates that development activities utilizing marine space must refer to the marine spatial planning. Spatial planning is a fundamental part of the series of processes in marine spatial planning to ensure the sustainability of ecosystem functions and socio-economic activities in the marine space,” said the Acting Director of Marine Spatial Planning at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Suharyanto.

The Government of East Java Province Seriously Regulates Marine Spatial Planning

The Governor of East Java, Khofifah Indar Parawansa, while attending the closing of the National Maritime Seminar held by PWI Jatim (Indonesian Journalists Association in the East Java region), revealed that her administration continues to make various strategies for managing marine space through the integration of marine and land spatial planning. Strict supervision is also carried out by the East Java Provincial Government (Pemprov Jatim) to ensure the utilization of marine space, the designation of coastal conservation areas, as well as massive socialization and education on the use of marine space.

Pemprov Jatim Implements the Sustainable Fisheries Concept as a Blue Economy Implementation Strategy

With the potential of maritime and fisheries resources in East Java, including a sea area of 5,202,579.34 hectares, a coastline of 3,543.54 kilometers, and 50,979 fishing vessels, the implementation of the sustainable fisheries concept greatly contributes to the advancement of the fisheries industry, improving people’s livelihoods, and maintaining the balance of marine habitats and ecology. As stated in Presidential Regulation Number 16 of 2017 concerning Indonesian Maritime Policy, marine spatial planning is one of the 11 missions to realize Indonesia as the maritime axis of the Indonesian archipelago.

Pemprov Jatim designates a conservation area of 202,819 hectares, in addition to providing an industrial zone of 10,311 hectares, a conservation area of 16,719 hectares, a blue carbon zone of 10,059 hectares, a sea port zone of 43,924 hectares, an aquaculture zone of 308,979 hectares, a capture fisheries zone of 4,521,736 hectares, and a tourism zone of 6,140 hectares.

East Java Tops Various National Rankings in the Field of Marine and Fisheries

The success of the provincial government in balancing marine spatial planning has propelled the province to the top of various rankings, including:

• Rank 1 nationally in capture fisheries with a yield of 598,317 tons.
• Rank 1 nationally in the highest fishery exports, amounting to 385,083 tons.
• Rank 1 nationally in salt production, amounting to 402,845.839 tons.
• Rank 3 nationally in aquaculture, amounting to 1,314,043.026 tons.

Governor Khofifah also launched the establishment of coral reef planting sites (corap spots) in the waters of Bangsring Banyuwangi, named Creative-Innovative-Productive (KIP), while declaring clean seas under the title “Stop Dumping Trash and Marine Waste.” This initiative involved 14 other stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Coastal Managers Association, the Forum for Marine Communities, SKK Migas Jabanusa, the Chairman of the Jatim Maritime Partner Consortium, the Chairman of the Association of Indonesian Ship and Offshore Industrial Entrepreneurs, as well as the Community Monitoring Group and the Association of Fisheries Processing and Marketing Product Producers.

By involving all elements of society in the preservation and monitoring of the ocean, the implementation of the sustainable fisheries concept to advance the economy and ecology can continue to progress on-track. The success of the provincial government in synergizing with stakeholders should serve as a benchmark for other provinces. It is important for not only producers and seafood distributors but also consumers to be motivated to jointly monitor and safeguard marine and fisheries activities. This is what Aruna has been doing alongside the Aruna Hub ecosystem, continuously striving to advance the marine ecosystem by comprehensively implementing the sustainable fisheries concept.

Banjar Regional Government Continues to Support Biofloc Fish Farming Entrepreneurs

In 2021, a young man named Erik Hidayat, who is an entrepreneur in the fisheries industry, transformed his aquaculture activities from manual methods to developing fish farming using the biofloc system. The main reason Erik undertook this transformation in his business was that he considered the biofloc system more efficient in maximizing land use and achieving higher harvest yields. The transformation carried out by this young entrepreneur caught the attention of the Banjar City Government (Pemkot Banjar). Erik’s popularity, along with the biofloc freshwater fish farming system, quickly gained traction among the people of Banjar City.

The Biofloc Farming System is More Efficient Compared to Manual Techniques

The biofloc farming system is a technology that manipulates the environment by relying on oxygen supply and utilizing microorganisms, which directly contribute to improving the digestibility of fish feed. In terms of land area ratio, one biofloc unit measuring 10 cubic meters can be used for breeding 1,000 fish. In contrast, using manual techniques, Erik could only accommodate 100 fish fry in a 10-cubic meter area of land. This more efficient land utilization naturally piqued the interest of many people who were inclined to follow Erik’s footsteps and switch to a career in fish farming.

Biofloc Cultivation Has its Challenges

Indeed, success cannot be achieved without facing obstacles, including the successful implementation of the biofloc fish farming method, which has attracted the attention of the people of Banjar City. After being widely adopted by the community, the fish farming system that meets the aspects of sustainable fisheries faced various challenges due to the high production costs, including:

• The use of feed may be more efficient, but the high cost of feed still leads to inflated expenses.
• It requires significant electricity consumption due to reliance on oxygen circulation equipment.

In addition to the aforementioned challenges, the selling price of the harvest also poses a challenge for the development of the biofloc farming system in Banjar City, which requires immediate solutions.

Banjar City’s KP3 Department Provides Assistance and Subsidies to Fish Farming Entrepreneurs

Yoyon Cuhyon, S.Pt, M.Si, the Head of the Food Security, Agriculture, and Fisheries Department of Banjar City, stated that they have prepared solutions for the challenges faced by biofloc farming practitioners in their region. The KP3 Department of Banjar City has previously provided a market for breeders to sell their produce directly, bypassing intermediaries. However, the significant operational costs still need to be addressed.

The KP3 Department of Banjar City expressed its commitment to continue providing guidance and working towards market access for biofloc fish farming practitioners. “To address the issue of production costs, we can recommend subsidies from the State Electricity Company (PLN) for biofloc farmers in Banjar City,” said Yoyon. In 2023, Yoyon stated that they would continue to strive to provide assistance to support fish farming entrepreneurs using the biofloc system in Banjar City, ensuring their continued involvement in the fisheries industry.

“We will synchronize the activities in the villages with the fisheries programs of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP). Not only that, we will also strive for changes in the local budget allocation (APBD),” said Yoyon. Additionally, Bank Indonesia plans to provide assistance in building fish storage and marketing facilities.

Implementation of Sustainability Must Be Done comprehensively

The implementation of sustainable fisheries is not only about environmentally friendly practices but also about the development of knowledge that should be possessed by all parties involved. Aruna’s success as a fisheries company and supply chain aggregator is not just about encouraging fishermen to engage in sustainable fishing practices, but also providing broader market access, including the global market.

The challenges faced by biofloc cultivation practitioners in Banjar City need attention from all parties to ensure that the community’s spirit to improve their livelihoods through the marine and fisheries sector remains strong. The Banjar City Department of Marine and Fisheries can collaborate with academic institutions and fisheries researchers to prioritize the improvement of cultivation systems and quality standards for harvests. Thus, in the future, the development of cultivation results using biofloc techniques will be ready to access a broader market.

Aruna Hub, which is an ecosystem of the fishing community developed by Aruna, will be ready to assist the Banjar City government or other regions in exploring collaborations to provide guidance for domestic fish cultivation practitioners. By emphasizing collaboration and knowledge transfer from various stakeholders, it will be easier to find solutions to any issues that arise in the fisheries sector.

Small Fishermen Should Be the Key to the Downstreaming of Marine Fisheries

Two-thirds of the Republic of Indonesia’s territory consists of oceans with an area of ​​up to 3.257 million square kilometers. It is no wonder that the government has made the sea the axis of development, namely by taking the blue economy course and the vision of making Indonesia the world’s maritime axis. In order to advance marine fisheries in Indonesia, the government is promoting the downstreaming of fisheries. “It’s huge, (but) we haven’t fully utilized its potential,” said President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) when delivering a speech at the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Financial Services Industry on Monday, February 6.

The government, through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, is preparing a strategy to strengthen the competitiveness of marine and fisheries products by downstreaming. The Secretary of the Directorate General for Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fisheries at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (kkp) Machmud, in the Ocean Talk webinar: How Realistic are the Options for Export Downstreaming and Processing of Marine Products?, held by Ocean Solution Indonesia on Thursday, February 16, stated that this downstreaming strategy includes increasing production, meeting global market product standards, increasing raw material supplies, and utilizing fisheries, quality assurance, and third-party certification.

Downstreaming Must Prioritize the Fate of Small Fishermen

Riza Damanik, as the Chairman of the Indonesian Marine Scholars Association (Iskindo), reminded that the government’s step to downstream fisheries and marine products must involve small fishermen, as Indonesia’s fisheries industry is highly dependent on traditional and small-scale fishermen. Indonesia can also learn from several countries that have successfully applied downstreaming in their marine fisheries sector, such as Vietnam, Thailand, China, and the United States.

“Small fishermen must be the main actors. With the economic structure of the city’s fisheries, which 96 percent is owned by small and traditional fishermen, it is impossible for the downstream sector to grow if the upstream is not healthy,” said Riza in the Iskindo: Innovation and Policy Forum discussion in the Pasar Minggu area, South Jakarta, on Monday, February 20. One example is the insurance program for fishermen and boats regardless of size, which has been successfully implemented by Thailand and Vietnam, so that the downstreaming of the industry can proceed. The success story of China’s downstreaming of fisheries, in which insurance is given to fishermen and their boats, is evidence that the government does not leave fishermen behind in achieving success.

Hilirization in Marine Fisheries Cannot Be Generalized Like in Other Sectors

The strategy of hilirization in the fisheries industry cannot be generalized like in other industries. Therefore, the government needs to carefully map out which fisheries commodities are suitable for hilirization because not all processed fisheries products get better value and prices. In fact, some products will get the best price if they are exported in a raw and fresh condition.

In addition to boosting the economy, hilirization of fisheries products also benefits processed seafood suppliers because they no longer need to import products that are already available domestically. Of course, the success of hilirization depends on the establishment of balanced policies for all parties, including small, medium, and large economic actors. Therefore, Aruna, as a supply chain aggregator company that continues to encourage small-scale fishermen to improve their livelihoods through sustainable fisheries, proactively welcomes the government’s steps regarding the hilirization issue through the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP).

So far, Aruna has collaborated with coastal communities to process fisheries products, not only to increase income but also to reduce the amount of fishing waste. Socialization and assistance for small fishermen must be carried out intensively until they can improve their livelihoods and production results. Of course, given the geographical conditions of our country, the assistance for fishermen requires the involvement of non-governmental actors, such as corporations, academia, and civil society organizations.

The Importance of Data Digitization in Sustainable Fisheries Concept

Digitalization of infrastructure and facilities using appropriate technology is an important aspect that should be comprehensively applied and understood by the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), especially in integrating it with the sustainable fisheries concept. In order to implement this integrated 4.0 technology, KKP has even developed the Integrated Fisheries Information Tree (PIPT).

The integration of marine and fisheries data has been regulated in Indonesian Ministerial Regulation No. 67 / Permen-KP / 2017, which governs data standards and electronic dissemination in a single data portal unit. The regulation also governs dynamic data authority, which is managed by a level 1 working unit under the coordination of the Ministry’s Data Unit.

1. E-Log Book, A Form of Technology Utilization to Implement Sustainable Fisheries Concept

Recently, KKP has partnered with the Nature Conservation Foundation of Indonesia (YKAN) to organize an event titled “Socialization of E-Log Book and Crew-Operated Data Recording System (CODRS) for Tuna Fishing” held for tuna fishing vessels in Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi. This E-log book for fisheries capture is expected to increase the coverage level of vessels by collecting tuna fishery data ranging from types to weights reported by fishermen.

The existence of this E-log book for fishing vessels will certainly be a crucial key in the fisheries data management system in Indonesia, as well as the application of sustainable fisheries concept that manages measurable fish regulations, so that adequate data and information management in the fisheries sector can run smoothly. With the operation of this E-log book, efficient monitoring of data related to the status and stock of fisheries will become the main reference for regulations governing fishing vessel activities.

2. KKP Facilitates Integrated Digital Data Collection and Helps Fishermen Access Various Services

Coordinator of the Monitoring, Analysis, Management, and Resource Allocation of Fish Group of KKP’s PSDI Directorate, Diding Sudira Efendi stated, “With the implementation of E-log book for fishing activities for fishing vessels over 5 GT (gross ton), we at the Fishery Port Technical Implementation Unit of Region I will also be assisted in obtaining fish production data more easily, accurately, and in real-time.”

Diding also announced that the Indonesian government is currently developing a policy transformation scheme for fisheries management by creating measurable fishing regulations based on quotas. Later, the data collected from the ship’s captains in the E-log book will be integrated data containing the utilization of quotas in the Electronic Measurable Fishing Application (e-PIT).

3. Local Heroes and Aruna Hub Help Fishermen Get Closer to Technology

Aruna, which has been inviting coastal communities, especially fishermen, to apply the sustainable fisheries concept by using appropriate technology, highly appreciates KKP’s step in implementing and socializing this E-log book. Moreover, KKP’s move is in line with the implementation of the sustainability concept that must use technology and data to optimize management in the fisheries sector.

In reaching and mobilizing coastal communities in various regions to be involved and implement sustainability insights in fisheries activities, the presence of Aruna Hub and Local Heroes always becomes the front guard. Therefore, KKP must remember to involve community leaders when socializing various activities and policies. Of course, Aruna, as a fisheries company that focuses on improving the living standards of fishermen, will be happy to accept cooperation from KKP if needed to socialize the implementation of technology for fishermen.

Prioritize Quality Control to Advance the Fisheries Main Industry

The government of the Republic of Indonesia has chosen the blue economy roadmap as a long-term development goal. Of course, every government agency is starting to move to support the success of implementing the blue economy. The concept of the blue economy focuses on the marine sector, which will certainly have a significant impact on the fisheries main industry.

Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, stated that quality control is still the domain of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) to ensure that products from the fisheries and marine industries meet the standards and qualifications that have been determined. To support the large-scale Blue Economy program, KKP has prepared various quality control and supervision measures to maintain the quality of production results from the fisheries main industry. As a supplier of seafood, you can also participate in this program by ensuring that the seafood products you offer meet the quality standards set by KKP.

Quality Control Implementation Must Meet Sustainability Aspects and Advance the Fisheries Main Industry

As a quality control/assurance unit and implementer of measurable fish capture, the Fish Quarantine, Quality Control, and Fishery Product Security Agency (BKIPM), led by Pamuji Lestari, explained that quality assurance is also implemented comprehensively, including in the development of sustainable fisheries in the marine, coastal, and land sectors. Quality control in the fisheries cultivation sector is applied through Good Fish Cultivation Practices (CBIB) and traceability. Of course, quality assurance also applies to fishing vessels and landing ports to encourage an increase in the number of vessels that comply with quality requirements.

Quality assurance is seen as playing an important role in realizing sustainable management and utilization of marine and fisheries resources, “This will have an impact on increasing the income and welfare of fishermen, fish farmers, processors, and marketers, as well as the general public,” he concluded.

Quality Assurance Plays a Role in Ensuring Target Production Results

As a major industry in Indonesia, fisheries are the focus of the BKIPM national coordination meeting held in Sorong. Seafood suppliers must ensure effective quality control to achieve production targets according to quality standards. Quality assurance can help ensure that the quality of fishery products is maintained, meet customer expectations, and improve the industry’s reputation.

The results of the national coordination meeting, which designed quality control and assurance in the fisheries main industry, are certainly eagerly awaited by all marine and fisheries stakeholders, including fishermen, fisheries companies, seafood distributors, and even consumers. By implementing a better quality assurance system, the standard of living of the community will improve, and consumers can get products with good quality assurance.

Sustainable Product Quality Standards are Key for Aruna

Aruna, as a fisheries company that has long applied sustainability insights to advance the standard of living of fishermen and make it easier for consumers to obtain quality fish products at more affordable prices, is also looking forward to the output of the national coordination meeting held in Sorong, even though Aruna has helped fishermen improve their economic standard by creating better quality standards to control capture and cultivation results.

Aruna’s success in implementing sustainable fisheries in various regions in Indonesia cannot be separated from the role of Local Heroes and the Aruna Hub ecosystem because each region certainly has its own local wisdom. Of course, this should be a consideration for KKP to prepare policy socialization on fisheries quality control so that it can be more easily accepted and understood by fisheries actors in all regions.

Sustainable Fisheries Partnership as the Solution for Implementing Blue Economy

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), has announced the implementation of the blue economy, where the government is committed to restoring the balance of marine habitats and accelerating the marine economy. KKP has even set 5 priority programs that will continue to be implemented to support the blue economy. To successfully carry out these 5 priority programs, KKP sees sustainable fisheries partnership as the most appropriate solution to increase the participation of all stakeholders in supporting the government to achieve its goals.

1. KKP Establishes Sustainable Fisheries Partnership with the World Bank

Of the 5 programs that KKP has identified as priorities to support the implementation of the blue economy concept in Indonesia, they include expanding marine conservation areas, measuring fish catches based on quotas, managing marine, coastal, and inland cultivation, sustainable coastal and small island management, and managing plastic waste in the sea. To successfully carry out the first priority program of expanding marine conservation areas, KKP has even initiated the Insan Terang – Lautra program, a conservation area development program that is funded by the World Bank.

2. Insan Terang – Lautra strengthens conservation management while increasing the fisheries industry

KKP continues to improve infrastructure to support the conservation expansion program through the Insan Terang – Lautra Coral Reef Infrastructure – Prosperous Ocean program. By emphasising sustainable fisheries partnerships, this infrastructure development will be carried out by collaborating with the World Bank. The Insan Terang – Lautra program, which is planned to begin operating effectively in mid-2023, aims to improve the welfare of coastal communities by managing conservation areas that are considered to have marine and fisheries resources.

In other words, the Insan Terang – Lautra program is expected to not only expand and strengthen conservation area management but also provide a livelihood for coastal communities by implementing sustainable aspects in fisheries industry activities.

3. Insan Terang – Lautra Strengthens Conservation Management and Boosts Fisheries Industry

Through this, improving coral reef management and effective conservation management that supports ecological and economic progress can be achieved together. Sustainable fisheries partnerships can also create synergies between the government and stakeholders, especially fishery companies. From the perspective of monitoring and evaluating programs, the government and collaborating parties together with the community can monitor to ensure that KKP’s priority programs run smoothly.

This is similar to what Aruna implements in building synergy with coastal communities and fishermen. Together with Aruna Hub, each party including internal Aruna, Local Heroes, and fishermen transfer knowledge and monitor each other to ensure that sustainable fishing activities can run well and continue to provide benefits.