Indonesia Expands Thematic Fish Farming Program in Yogyakarta

RRI.CO.ID, Yogyakarta - Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries will expand its thematic fish farming program to Yogyakarta. The announcement followed a meeting in Yogyakarta on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

The ministry identified 64 village locations that met eligibility requirements after verification. The program also received support from Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X before technical implementation begins.

Director General of Aquaculture, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Tb. Haeru Rahayu, said the ministry sought local government support first. He emphasized collaboration before launching the strategic aquaculture initiative.

Haeru said the program aims to improve community welfare through sustainable aquaculture development. He also explained the ministry discussed another strategic fisheries program during the meeting.

“We want to report and seek support for two strategic programs of the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, one thematic aquaculture program and the other KNMP. Because we are entering the Yogyakarta region, of course we must first ask permission from the host. Thank God he fully supports it. Next, we will discuss the technical implementation together with the relevant regional agencies,” he said.

Regional Secretary of Yogyakarta Special Region, Ni Made Dwi Panti Indrayanti, said each site will use about 1,000 square meters. The facilities will cultivate freshwater species including catfish and tilapia.

She stressed that sustainability remains the program's main challenge beyond infrastructure development. Good management and quality fish seeds are considered essential for long-term success.

Head of the Yogyakarta Marine Affairs and Fisheries Agency, Hery Sulistio Hermawan, said the program will apply a mini Recirculating Aquaculture System. The technology recycles filtered water, improving efficiency for aquaculture on limited land.

“Aquaculture water is recycled. After passing through filters and improving water quality, it returns to the ponds. Water use becomes much more efficient, while production is expected to remain optimal,” he said.

The ministry verified 64 of 82 proposed locations across Yogyakarta for the first implementation phase. Catfish and tilapia will support local markets, including Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals Program supply chain.