KKP Deploys 87 Surveyors for Papua Fishing Villages

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) Ministry has deployed 87 specialized surveyors across five provinces in Papua to spearhead the development of the "Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih" (KNMP) or Red and White Fishing Villages.

This strategic deployment marks a critical phase in the government's 2026 developmental roadmap. It shifts the focus toward Indonesia’s easternmost frontier to ensure that maritime growth is no longer centralized.

Marine Affairs and Fisheries Deputy Minister, Didit Herdiawan Ashaf, in a press release in Jakarta, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, remarked that this preliminary step is vital for verifying land readiness and socio-economic feasibility.

He emphasized that the initiative is a cornerstone of the 2026 Papua KNMP targets. "Development priorities begin in Eastern Indonesia. The goal is to reduce the developmental disparity within the marine and fisheries sector," he said as quoted by Antara.

Reinforcing this commitment, Director General of Capture Fisheries, Lotharia Latif, assured that the ministry is closely monitoring the process. This oversight ensures the project is not only executed swiftly but is also precisely targeted.

He explained that every proposed site undergoes a rigorous selection process. This evaluation includes land readiness, the presence of active fishers, capture fisheries activity, and the commitment of local administration.

"Once a location is declared feasible, we will immediately draft the planning documents and proceed to the procurement process," added Lotharia, targeting a phased but simultaneous commencement of construction in Papua by May 2026.

The scale of the operation was further detailed by the Secretary of the Directorate General of Capture Fisheries, Ridwan Mulyana. He highlighted the surveyors' role in validating 1,000 potential KNMP sites this year, specifically across Papua, West Papua, Central Papua, and South Papua.

"Surveys must be comprehensive, objective, and based on field data. Ensure the land is clean and clear, with a definite status and no underlying issues," he insisted.

From a socio-economic perspective, The Main Center for Marine and Fisheries Socio-Economic Affairs Head, Novi Susetyo Adi, explained that the assessment goes beyond mere geography to include a deep dive into the lives of the fishing communities.

The evaluation covers demographics, economic profiles, institutional strength, and the operational structure of local fisheries, including cost structures and marketing potential. Furthermore, Novi clarified that the team is assessing physical land conditions, infrastructure availability, utilities, and disaster risk potentials.

He emphasized that these multifaceted aspects are essential to ensure the development is effective and sustainable. Ultimately, this approach will provide tangible benefits for the welfare of the fishing community. ***