Supporting Mass Capture of Sailfin Catfish, Pramono: If Left Alone, Local Fish Will Disappear

JAKARTA — Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that he agrees with conducting a massive control of sailfin catfish in Jakarta’s rivers. He assessed that this invasive species can disrupt the ecosystem balance and potentially endanger the public. Pramono also appreciated the Central Jakarta City Government’s initiative to capture sailfin catfish in the river area around Grand Hyatt and Plaza Indonesia on Friday (10/4/2026). “Because if left alone, the other fish will disappear. (Fish like) wader and so on will definitely disappear,” he emphasised. Pramono admitted to monitoring the sailfin catfish capture process around Grand Hyatt and Plaza Indonesia. He explained that the species originating from South America has strong resilience. According to him, sailfin catfish can also consume various types of food, thus potentially disrupting the river ecosystem. Additionally, he considered the fish unsafe for consumption. “The danger is that its flesh certainly contains contamination with certain harmful substances,” Pramono clarified. Head of the Central Jakarta Food Security, Forestry, and Agriculture Sub-Department (KPKP) Halimah stated that the number of sailfin catfish caught on Friday reached 40 individuals. These fish were then killed and buried. The capture took place along the banks of the West Canal (BKB) Ciliwung, Kebon Melati Ward, Tanah Abang. According to her, the abundance of fish in that location could attract the public to fish or take them directly. Therefore, the capture was carried out to prevent crowds. “Also to ensure public safety around the river by avoiding indiscriminate consumption of the fish,” Halimah said. She advised the public not to directly take or consume fish from the river without ensuring their safety and suitability. “Because the fish may have been exposed to pollution,” Halimah added. The sailfin catfish capture activity had gone viral on social media. Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin also directly monitored the activity carried out by public facilities and infrastructure officers (PPSU).