The government focuses on prioritizing maritime sector for state budget source. It draws supports from various elements. Even though this sector has not been worked on for long time, the government’s efforts to restore maritime glory are not late.
“Currently, this is Indonesia’s momentum to empower all maritime potentials for people’s welfare. We must support this program and contribute for the sake of this country,” said Rokan Group President Director, Rustian, to press in Jakarta yesterday.
According to him, there are 10 maritime economy potentials which must be concerned and optimally managed starting from captured fishery, fishery culture, fishery product processing industry, maritime biotechnology industry, as well as mining ad energy. Moreover, maritime tourism sector and mangrove forest must be well-managed to attract foreign tourists.
Rustian said maritime potentials have been abandoned for long time since Indonesia is lulled by its overflowing oil. This country is shocked when its oil almost runs out.
Rustian admitted he used to suggest the government to form maritime intelligence team but it was refused.
“Maritime intelligence is a form of communication. In its implementation, national fishermen are given with sophisticated equipment so when they spot foreign vessels, they can immediately report it to control center,” he said.
Maritime and Fishery Minister, Susi Pudjiastuti, predicted illegal fishing has inflicted IDR 300 trillion loss per year. For the last 10 years, not less than IDR 3,000 trillion of Indonesian maritime potentials has been stolen by foreign fishermen. (Rakyat Merdeka)
