The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) of Indonesia has distributed 36 packages of infrastructure and facilities (Sarpras) for seaweed seedbeds to 36 groups of seaweed farmers in three islands. The allocation includes 17 groups in Pulau Wangiwangi, 14 groups in Pulau Kaledupa, and 5 groups in Pulau Tomia.
Each package contains 100 kilograms of Cottonii seaweed seeds along with various other items necessary for seaweed cultivation. The funding for the project comes from the State Budget (APBN) of the KKP, Directorate General of Aquaculture in the fiscal year 2023. The Inspecteur III of KKP, Wahyudi Purwanto, stated that the government aims to support the post-production process and ensure that there is a market (offtaker) for the seaweed products to benefit the local communities in Wakatobi.
Bupati Wakatobi, Haliana, expressed gratitude for the government's attention and support, noting that the assistance provided may not be substantial in amount, but it helps reduce costs and eases the burden for seaweed farmers in purchasing necessary supplies, thereby contributing to improving their livelihoods. The local government aims to maximize the potential of the assistance by promoting the development and marketing of seaweed products to generate income and create economic opportunities for the community.
