The Jayapura Regency Government in Papua has reported a continuous annual increase in fish exports from the region, reaching 1,000 tons. According to data from the Jayapura Regency Marine and Fisheries Office, fish exports in 2022 amounted to 450 tons. With the support of fishing equipment provided by the office in 2023, fish catches increased, leading to exports reaching 1,000 tons. Rudi A Saragih, the Head of the Jayapura Regency Marine and Fisheries Office, stated that efforts to strengthen marine fisheries groups are ongoing. "This year, we will provide 8 units of fishing vessels with gross tonnage (GT) of 2 GT and 3 GT each, 24 outboard motors, and nets to fisheries groups in coastal areas such as Depapre and Demta," he said.Saragih noted that there are currently 253 marine fisheries groups, 578 aquaculture groups, and 34 management and marketing groups registered.
"These group data are crucial as they relate to the support aid that will be provided regularly every year, especially to groups that have improved their results," he explained. He further clarified that the support provided is part of the work program to assist the central government in meeting Indonesia's fish export needs. "Our efforts contribute to the central government's needs for fish exports abroad because the fish we send out are either stored or processed in Banyuwangi, East Java, before being exported," he added. Saragih also highlighted the high catches of skipjack tuna and yellowfin tuna in recent years, carried out by marine fisheries groups with the support of the fishing equipment provided. "We hope that with the support given, traditional fishermen who are indigenous Papuans (OAP) can live prosperously from their sea harvests," he expressed. The Budget Management List (DPA) at the Jayapura Regency Marine and Fisheries Office for this year amounts to IDR 13 billion, with IDR 10 billion allocated for direct support to the community, the remaining IDR 3 billion for operational expenses, employee salaries, and special autonomy funds managed this year amounting to IDR 3 billion.
