Banda Aceh – The AMANAH program, which stands for Aneuk Muda Aceh Unggul Hebat, has recorded significant achievements in empowering human resources (HR) in Aceh through technological innovations that focus on the development of fiberglass fishing boats. This innovation not only provides practical solutions for local fishermen but also marks an important step in a new era of HR empowerment in the province.
The AMANAH program has received special attention from President Joko Widodo, who has fully supported the initiative from the start as part of the government’s strategy to improve the welfare and quality of life of the Acehnese people through the application of modern technology. According to President Jokowi, programs such as AMANAH are in line with the government’s grand vision to ensure equitable development throughout Indonesia, especially in areas that have so far been less touched by technology and innovation.
The AMANAH team has successfully tested a fiberglass boat in the waters of Ulee Lheue, Banda Aceh. This boat is the result of collaboration between AMANAH and a team of Mechanical Engineering students from Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh. This innovation received a positive response from fishermen, including Nasri, a local fisheries entrepreneur, who gave a high rating to the product.
“After I tried the fiber fishing boat made by AMANAH, I felt that this boat has several advantages. The cost of purchasing and maintaining this fiber boat is much cheaper compared to the traditional wooden boats commonly used by Aceh fishermen,” said Nasri.
One of the main advantages of fiberglass boats is their durability and low maintenance costs. Unlike wooden boats that require regular maintenance and replacement, fiberglass boats can last longer without requiring intensive maintenance. Nasri said,
“Because this boat is made of fiber, the maintenance cost can be reduced to zero rupiah. This fiber material can last for several years without the need for replacement like wooden boats,” he added.
In the initial trials, the fiberglass boat showed superior fuel efficiency. Its light weight means that the boat engine does not require much power to push the boat body and the cargo on it. As a result, fuel consumption can be saved by around 50% compared to wooden boats. This is good news for fishermen, who can now reduce their operating costs and increase profits.
The AMANAH program not only offers technological innovation, but also contributes to the empowerment of human resources in Aceh. By having a technology workshop in the Aceh Industrial Area (KIA) Ladong, Aceh Besar Regency, AMANAH is committed to creating more technological innovations that are beneficial to the community.
“As the price of wood increases, the cost of building wooden boats also increases. AMANAH’s breakthrough by making fiber fishing boats is expected to help fishermen in reducing operational costs,” said Nasri.
President Joko Widodo fully supports the AMANAH program as part of the government’s strategy to improve the capacity and welfare of the Acehnese people through technology. This innovation is expected to not only increase the efficiency and success of the fisheries sector but also open up new opportunities for technological development in the region.
BIN’s initiative in the AMANAH Program proves that with the right support, local innovation can have a big impact on people’s welfare, increase efficiency, and pave the way for sustainable development. President Jokowi and BIN’s support for this program shows the government’s strong commitment to creating a more advanced and equitable Indonesia throughout the region, including Aceh. []