KKP ensures local workforce involvement in Waingapu shrimp pond project

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has ensured the involvement of local communities in the construction and operations of the integrated shrimp pond in Waingapu, East Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara.

The strategic project, valued at Rp7.2 trillion, is projected to absorb thousands of local workers while enhancing the welfare of coastal communities.

Head of the KKP’s Agency for Extension and Human Resources Development in Marine Affairs and Fisheries, I Nyoman Radiarta, stated during a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday that KKP will ensure local workers contribute significantly to the programme.

“We are ensuring the preparation of local workers to contribute. We are very focused on preparing human resources, especially the people of East Sumba who lack experience. We will provide training through special classes for 12-16 months,” he said.

Based on KKP’s initial study, the integrated shrimp pond has the potential to absorb around 8,820 local workers.

In addition, KKP estimates that the construction and operational phases could reduce poverty by up to 55% and improve the welfare of around 35,820 people, including workers’ families.

Director General of Aquaculture at KKP, Tb Haeru Rahayu, added that the Waingapu shrimp pond is designed as a pilot model for modern and sustainable aquaculture with the implementation of good aquaculture practices.

“We apply SOPs from best practices, starting from intake collection, the process to ponds, management in cultivation plots, to wastewater treatment management to avoid negative environmental impacts,” he explained.

He noted that the construction of this pond is an development from the previous model in Kebumen, Central Java, which was still area-based and not fully integrated from upstream to downstream.

However, according to him, the Waingapu shrimp pond system has been upgraded to an integrated one to ensure production sustainability while opening job opportunities for local communities.

The Waingapu shrimp pond area is located in Palakahembi Village and Watumbaka Ward, Pandawal District, East Sumba Regency.

With a land area of around 2,150 hectares and a built-up area of 1,361 hectares, ISF Waingapu is projected to produce 52,000 tonnes of shrimp per year.

To date, the Waingapu shrimp pond development is still limited to pond plots. The latest documentation as of 31 March 2026 shows several heavy machines already operating at the site.

The government targets this project to be fully completed within three years.