Fish employers keep protesting the government’s policy in maritime and fishery sector. Yesterday, they came to the office of Maritime and Fishery (KP) Minister, Susi Pudjiastuti. Two days before, fishermen and employers delivered complaints to Representative House (DPR). Susi welcomed the employers and an enormous debate occurred.
Indonesia Tuna Association (Astuin) Chairman, Edi Yuwono, criticized transshipment ban policy. According to him, the policy complicates them to conduct export.
“Susi, we export fresh tuna so we need speed. The ban hampers us so please find us a solution,” Edi asked.
Responding to the demand, Susi answered, ”In main port, Sir,” she asserted. Edi, feeling unsatisfied with the answer, tried to explain that it is not efficient. “From fishing ground to port, it is not efficient. We usually transship and bring it to land,” he explained.
The explanation was shortly answered by Susi. “If it goes to land, it’s okay.”
Meanwhile, Indonesia Marine Fish Culture Association (Abilindo) Chairman, Steven Hadi Tarjanto, criticized permit moratorium of some foreign vessels. According to him, the policy brings bad impact to fish culture trade in Indonesia. “We really understand what the minister has explained. However, we hope the purchasing vessels from other countries can enter and buy our product,” he asked.
Steven said if the regulation is not reviewed, thousands of grouper, shrimp, and lobster farmers can go bankrupt. He predicted they will be bankrupt no later than three months since they have no buyers.
Moreover, the country will lose income. According to Steven, every year, his office contributes USD 40 million for export.
Drawing countless protests, Susi insisted. She asserted she will not revoke or revise the regulations about moratorium and transshipment ban. “I cannot revoke it. I cannot cancel the right policy,” she asserted.
Susi said she really understands the issue about maritime and fishery in Indonesia. Before serving as a minister, Susi has worked on Indonesian fishery business for 33 years.
“I do not seek anything. I only want to see better Indonesian fishery sector since currently I can rule it, not just a player like in the past,” Susi said.
Susi asserted she will keep issuing pro-fisherman regulations. She ensured the regulation she issues will be tough and prevail for all fishery business players in Indonesia. (Rakyat Merdeka)
