RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), in collaboration with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), has launched a public education campaign in Buton and Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi, aimed at preventing Indonesian fishermen from crossing into Australian waters illegally.

The initiative, held from March 27–30, targeted not only fishermen but also their families, boat owners, and even elementary school students. The broad approach was designed to build community-wide awareness of the risks and consequences of violating maritime boundaries.

“This effort is part of the government’s strategy to strengthen cooperation at both national and international levels in reducing violations by fishermen in foreign waters, which could disrupt Indonesia’s relations with neighboring countries,” Director General of Capture Fisheries at the KKP Ministry, Lotharia Latif, said in a statement on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

AFMA data shows that fishermen from Buton and Wakatobi have continued to be detained by Australian authorities for crossing maritime borders. To address this, the campaign provided training on Indonesia-Australia sea boundaries, legal risks, safety at sea, and the importance of sustainable fisheries management.

Fishermen were also given waterproof maps detailing maritime borders and guidelines for resource use near the frontier.

“Through this program, we hope fishermen will become more aware and avoid crossing into foreign waters. This aligns with the government’s commitment to protecting our fishermen while maintaining good relations with neighboring countries,” Latif concluded.

The campaign reflects Indonesia’s broader preventive and collaborative approach to safeguarding its fishermen. Education, monitoring, and international cooperation are seen as key to reducing illegal fishing practices while improving livelihoods. ***