Wilmar Group Unit Continues Fishery Support Programme for Serang Fishermen
PT Multi Nabati Asahan (MNA), a subsidiary of Wilmar Group—one of Indonesia’s largest palm oil processing companies—continues to support the economic activities of fishermen in Terate Village, Serang Regency, Banten, through a fishing equipment assistance programme that has been running since 2019.
The programme is implemented in collaboration with the Berkah Bahari Jaya Cooperative, which currently comprises 215 fishing members. The assistance includes nets, biofloc ponds, boat hulls, and river normalisation projects, which are primary necessities for fishermen that require periodic replacement. The programme also includes social activities during major holidays, such as Maulid Nabi and Eid.
According to the Chairman of the Berdis Bahari Jaya Cooperative, Robani Hambali, the presence of the cooperative has stimulated economic circulation, particularly for fishermen. This support helps them maintain productivity amidst the increasing challenges within the traditional fisheries sector. Currently, cooperative members operate approximately 40 small boats and 60 medium-sized boats.
“The assistance with fishing equipment is very helpful for fishermen because operational costs continue to rise, while catches are not always stable,” he said on 18 May.
Robani explained that weather conditions and economic challenges have led some fishermen to transition into the industrial and factory sectors around the Banten region. As a result, many boats are now left idle. He expressed hope that companies would be willing to increase capital for fishermen to develop their businesses.
“Conditions for fishing are becoming increasingly difficult. Many fishermen are starting to seek other jobs in factories. Therefore, we hope that in the future, there will be support for other business developments, such as fish farming or livestock, so that the community has additional sources of income,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Head of Industrial Estate for Wilmar, Byron Oswald, stated that the company continues to promote programmes focused on improving the welfare of communities around its operational areas in a sustainable manner.
“The cooperation with the fishing community in Terate Village is part of the company’s efforts to support the strengthening of the local economy and to help the community face business challenges in the coastal sector,” he said.
Moving forward, the company will continue to maintain a dialogue with the community and the cooperative to identify potential programme developments that align with the needs of local residents.