Riau Islands marine and fisheries office has confirmed that two fishermen from the province were still detained in Malaysia, a week after they were arrested for illegal entry.
Traditional fishermen decided to force the five fishing vessels to leave the waters because they used trawl nets.
The Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI) in Johor Bahru confirmed that it had rescued seven Indonesian seafarers who were adrift at Malaysian waters for two days.
TheIndonesia.id - The Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment has lauded the newly-launched National Fishers Center as a “useful” platform where Indonesian seafarers can file complaints and reports related to issues in fisheries industry.
Acting deputy assistant for maritime security and resilience at the Coordinating Ministry Helyus Komar said the Fishers Center, which was initiated by non-government organization Destructive Fishing Watch (DFW), has been very advantageous for seafarers and their families as a mean to report industry-related problems.
“Since [its creation], the Fishers Center has been very useful. Testimonies said its creation really helps seafarers and their families to report fishers’ issues in the sector. And the Ministry really appreciates [its launching],” Komar said on Wednesday, July 6, during the official launching of the platform.
He acknowledged that problems faced by Indonesian seafarers seem to never end, and the Ministry constantly receives reports from workers’ union on issues related to unpaid wages, neglect, to health issues.
“That’s why we truly appreciate efforts made by civil society organizations like DFW,” Komar said.
With alternatives created to help seafarers to report their problems, the Indonesian government expects troubles in fisheries could gradually be resolved, along with efforts made by state authorities.
The National Fishers Watch was initiated by DFW with an objective to protect Indonesian seafarers, and the platform allows crew to be connected to related parties in fisheries, both domestic and international.
