Indonesia Secures UK Support for Major Maritime Partnership

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced that the United Kingdom will support Indonesia’s plan to build 1,500 fishing vessels, as part of a broader maritime cooperation agreement between the two countries.

“They will back our plan to construct 1,500 fishing vessels,” Prabowo said after meeting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, early morning local time. He added that the government will make substantial investments under this partnership.

The Indonesian government envisions maritime cooperation as a way to revitalize fishing villages across the country, improve the welfare of fishermen, and encourage greater fish consumption among the population.

Prabowo noted that despite Indonesia’s vast seas, covering three-quarters of the nation’s territory, fish consumption remains relatively low. He emphasized that strengthening the maritime sector is strategic and will help accelerate economic growth.

“I remind everyone that three-quarters of Indonesia is ocean, yet our protein intake is still low. This must be improved,” he said, stressing that the initiative will drive progress in the maritime economy.

Indonesia regards the UK as an important and strategic partner, given its advanced technology and strong financial resources. President Prabowo expressed confidence that Indonesia will gain significant benefits from the collaboration.

“We see the UK as a highly engaged partner in Indonesia’s economy,” he said. “They have technology and capital, and they are very interested in investing in Indonesia.”

The President underscored that Indonesia stands to benefit from Britain’s technological expertise and financial capacity. “This partnership will be highly advantageous for both sides,” he concluded. (Diffa Sephiawardhani/Sri Wahyuni)