Jakarta – The blue economy program currently being implemented by the government has received support from various stakeholders. This strategy is considered crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of the marine and fisheries sector while maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.
The Director of Business Empowerment at the Ministry of Investment/BKPM, Delfinur Rizky Novihamzah, emphasized that the private sector plays a crucial role in national investment growth. According to him, various international institutions predict that Indonesia’s economy will remain stable at around five percent. In fact, the World Bank is optimistic about the national economic outlook despite the challenges faced by East Asian and Pacific countries.
“The government aims for economic growth to reach eight percent to realize the vision of Indonesia Emas, with a planned investment realization of IDR 13,320 trillion over the next five years, double the amount from the previous period,” said Delfinur.
In the context of the blue economy, Delfinur highlighted Indonesia’s vast potential as the second-largest seafood producer in the world. However, investment in the marine and fisheries sector remains relatively low, accounting for only about one percent of total investment each year. Therefore, BKPM has developed a downstream roadmap covering key products such as blue swimming crab, seaweed, salt, as well as tuna, skipjack, and mackerel (TCT).
With the implementation of this strategy, the government is targeting investments of up to USD 681 billion, the creation of three million jobs, and an increase in exports reaching USD 857.9 billion. However, Delfinur stressed that the development of the blue economy must continue to uphold sustainability principles to ensure long-term benefits.
Meanwhile, Kristianto, a lecturer at the Faculty of Law, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, asserted that the sustainable management of coastal and marine resources must be knowledge-based. This effort aims to create socio-economic welfare, maintain the health of marine ecosystems, and strengthen resilience for both current and future generations.
“As part of its mission, the government targets healthy, resilient, and productive waters, focusing on sustainable economic growth while maintaining environmental balance,” said Kristianto. He also added that this strategy is designed to improve community welfare, strengthen marine ecosystem resilience, and create an environment that supports inclusive development.
On the other hand, Member of the House of Representatives (DPR) Commission IV, Rina Sa’adah, urged the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) to remain steadfast and optimistic in implementing the blue economy program despite budget efficiency policies.
She also emphasized the importance of creativity in addressing budget constraints. According to her, this sector holds significant potential that must be maximized, particularly in managing small islands, which are an integral part of the maritime sector.
The support from various stakeholders indicates that the government’s blue economy program has promising prospects for boosting national economic growth while ensuring the sustainability of Indonesia’s marine resources
