Indonesia says illegal fishing crackdown saves US$895 million

Pung Nugroho, director general of marine and fisheries resources surveillance, said combating illegal fishing was crucial for protecting resources and strengthening maritime sovereignty.

“Illegal fishing is not merely fish theft but a real threat to future generations. We are committed to ensuring marine resources are managed independently and professionally,” he said on Friday.

As a recent example, Nugroho cited the interception of an attempt to smuggle 1.2 metric tons of humphead wrasse to Hong Kong on May 29.

He said the illegal shipment was carried by a foreign vessel flying the Sao Tome and Principe flag and concealed inside a hidden compartment.

According to Nugroho, illegal fishing methods have evolved and are increasingly linked to serious transnational crimes.

He said authorities have found links between such activities and crimes including people smuggling and fish laundering.

Nugroho added that perpetrators continue adapting their methods to avoid detection by authorities.

In response, the ministry said it would continue strengthening maritime surveillance systems and monitoring capabilities.

The measures include adopting advanced monitoring technology, implementing international standards and strengthening law enforcement.

Nugroho also instructed field officers to increase vigilance and conduct stricter patrol supervision.

He said combating illegal fishing requires cooperation among stakeholders to break the chain of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activities.

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Translator: Shofi Ayudiana, Resinta Sulistiyandari