Japan and UNDP push Morotai's fishing economy forward with green technology
Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Government of Japan, together with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is providing support to the Government of Indonesia through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries regarding green technology solutions to preserve marine ecosystems and boost the economy of fishers, particularly in Morotai, North Maluku.
Strengthening Livelihoods of Small-Scale Fishers and Promoting Sustainable Local Economic Development through the Blue Economy, or seaBLUE, is a project that delivers practical technology solutions to address climate change, increase the income of small-scale fishers, and, in the long term, promote sustainable growth for coastal communities.
“seaBLUE shows how strong partnerships can create real change for coastal communities,” said Sara Ferrer Olivella, UNDP Indonesia Resident Representative, in a Jakarta statement on Thursday.
UNDP, together with representatives of the Government of Japan and the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) of the Republic of Indonesia, conducted a visit to Morotai Island as a sign of joint commitment to strengthening the life of coastal communities while safeguarding Indonesia’s marine ecosystems.
The visit forms part of a project funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP and KKP.
“By working directly with communities and delivering simple technological solutions, such as solar-powered fishing boats and solar-powered cold storage boxes, fishing families can reduce their reliance on expensive fossil fuels, continue harvesting seaweed, and extend the shelf life of their catches,” said Sara.
Through seaBLUE, UNDP supports a range of practical solutions to improve fisheries management and introduce cleaner and more efficient technologies. One example is the installation of solar-powered cold storage systems at 17 sites on Morotai.
“Ultimately, these efforts help coastal families build a safer and more sustainable future by increasing their incomes while minimising the negative impacts on the environment that sustain their livelihoods,” she said.
The project also introduces solar-powered electric boat engines to help reduce fuel costs while cutting emissions and to strengthen fisheries governance.
To enhance legal recognition and data accuracy, 230 fishing vessels have been measured and registered in the Regional Vessel Licensing Information System (SIMKADA).
The move provides official recognition for small-scale fishers while helping to make fisheries management more effective.
“Strengthening sustainable fisheries is crucial to ensuring food security, economic stability, and the long-term health of our seas,” said Reiko.
Head of the Centre for Maritime and Fisheries Extension at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), Yayan Hikmayani, said that as the world’s largest archipelagic country, Indonesia’s future growth depends on a strong and sustainable marine foods sector.
“Through the seaBLUE project, the KKP fully supports efforts to empower small-scale fisheries by investing in human resources development. This support is realised through ongoing training and advisory services for coastal communities,” said Yayan.
To date, hundreds of community members have participated in training through the seaBLUE project. Fisheries extension workers are prepared to continue supporting coastal and fisheries communities to ensure sustainable livelihoods, improved productivity, and long-term resilience.