The capture fisheries production in Central Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, reached 30,692.541 tons in 2023, indicating a significant increase of 3,007.636 tons compared to the 2022 production of 27,684.905 tons. Yardiansyah, the Secretary of the Department of Fisheries in Central Bangka, attributed this substantial production growth to the effective utilization of fishing equipment assistance provided by the government, showcasing the positive impact of well-employed aid. The crucial role of fisheries extension workers in accompanying and sharing knowledge with fishermen regarding technology utilization has also played a pivotal role in boosting capture fisheries production. The ongoing commitment to empower fishing communities and the distribution of fishing equipment assistance have been instrumental in ensuring a noteworthy increase in catch results. Breaking down the 30,692.541-ton production, Yardiansyah highlighted the contributions from five out of six sub-districts. Koba Sub-District recorded 9,897.06 tons, Lubuk Besar Sub-District contributed 4,826.00 tons, Namang Sub-District added 2,042.10 tons, Pangkalanbaru Sub-District reached 6,788.55 tons, and Sungaiselan Sub-District accounted for 7,138.82 tons. Simpangkatis Sub-District, being a non-coastal area, did not register any capture fisheries production.
The realized production of 30,692.441 tons exceeded the 2023 target of 28,236.57 tons. Anticipating a considerable increase in capture fisheries production this year, factors such as improving sea conditions starting February 2023 and the availability of adequate fishing facilities, both government-assisted and privately acquired by fishermen, contribute to this positive outlook. Emphasizing the importance of fishing infrastructure in enhancing production, Yardiansyah underscored the significance of fishing vessel range in identifying potential catch points. The continuous updating of sidolpin technology aims to boost fishermen's catch results. The Central Bangka Regency government remains committed to empowering coastal communities, particularly by encouraging household processing industries utilizing fish as raw materials. In summary, the noteworthy increase in capture fisheries production in Central Bangka, reaching 30,692.541 tons in 2023, is attributed to effective government assistance, fisheries extension efforts, and the commitment to empowering coastal communities, setting a positive trajectory for further growth in the coming year.
