Maluku and Japan explore cooperation in fisheries and oil and gas sectors

The Maluku provincial government and the Japanese Consulate General are exploring opportunities for cooperation across various strategic sectors, ranging from fisheries, education, to the management of mineral resources and oil and gas (oil and gas).

Deputy Governor of Maluku Abdullah Vanath stated in Ambon on Wednesday that the Provincial Government of Maluku is committed to ensuring that Japanese investment, both existing and forthcoming, can proceed optimally and provide tangible benefits to the community.

“We, together with the Regional Secretary and relevant authorities, are committed to leveraging this opportunity to create employment for the people of Maluku,” he said.

He noted that the education sector is one of the primary focuses of cooperation, particularly through collaboration with Pattimura University and other higher education institutions to improve the quality of Maluku’s human resources.

In the real economy sector, the Deputy Governor emphasised the importance of preparedness in the region’s agricultural and fisheries sectors, particularly in meeting export market demands, including vegetables and fishery products. He has requested relevant agencies to enhance production quality and standards to meet international requirements.

In the field of mineral and energy resources, he mentioned opportunities for collaboration in sustainable natural resource management, including support for the development of the Masela Block as one of Indonesia’s strategic oil and gas projects.

Additionally, cooperation in the education sector also receives attention, through student exchanges, scholarships, and improved vocational competency to prepare skilled workers suited to industry needs.

Furthermore, the Japanese Government has also opened opportunities for grant programmes for public facility development such as schools, hospitals, ambulances, and other basic service infrastructure, as a form of support for improving the quality of life for Maluku’s people.

It is hoped that through the formulation of concrete steps and appropriate policy support, cooperation with the Japanese Government can be sustained and mutually beneficial, while promoting regional economic growth and improving the welfare of Maluku’s people.