Indonesia boosts maritime surveillance with 10 new patrol vessels

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries in Indonesia has announced new measures to strengthen marine and fisheries resources monitoring in order to eradicate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing practices.

The following projects will be carried out primarily in Indonesia's Fisheries Management Area (WPPNRI) 711, located in the North Natuna Sea, in the Riau Islands Province.

Specifically, the Ministry has commissioned the construction of 10 new Class I patrol vessels, expanding its current fleet of 34 vessels, and will also expand the dock at the Batam Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance Base (PSDKP).

"This fleet expansion must be supported by adequate port infrastructure capable of accommodating the large vessels currently under construction," said Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Didit Herdiawan.

Moreover, PSDKP Director General Pung Nugroho Saksono indicated that "Batam serves as the main base for patrol vessels operating in the National Fisheries Management Area (WPPNRI) 711, in the North Natuna Sea. These waters remain vulnerable to illegal fishing activities."

Finally, the Ministry confirmed that all projects are being carried out under the supervision of the Indonesian Attorney General’s Office to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with current regulations.

At the beginning of the year, the Indonesian Government announced plans to complete the Red and White Fishing Villages project in 65 locations this year, to improve coastal communities' welfare.

This initiative aimed to modernize, develop, and economically empower traditional coastal fishing communities. The project included the installation of docks, fish markets, cold storage facilities, ice plants, repair workshops, logistics centers, and fuel stations, among others.