Susi Warns Countries That Illegal Fishing is Transnational Crime

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti has warned governments across the world of illegal fishing activities that have currently become transnational crimes.

"Indonesia acknowledges that based on various investigations, many violations and crimes were committed along fishery business chains. And because there are many jurisdictions which are involved, we understand that illegal fishing activities are organized transnational fishery crimes," she said when speaking at the "Our Oceans" conference organized in Washington DC, on September 15 and 16, according to a statement of the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry, on Saturday.

Indonesia, which has intensified efforts against illegal fishing activities, is of the view that an international synergy is crucial to combat that crime.

"Indonesia continues, and incessantly fights illegal fishing," the minister stated.

Her ministry has discovered violations in the fishery field such as fake documents of fishing boat permits and illegal employment of foreign manpower that tends to violate human rights.

Illegal fishing perpetrators have committed their crimes across countries and it involved structured organizations, according to her.

"It should attract our attention that illegal fishing activities are related to organized transnational crimes and their crimes are even beyond the fishery sector," Pudjiastuti said.

In the meantime, WWF (World Wildlife Fund) has presented Susi Pudjiastuti, Indonesia Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, its prestigious Leaders for a Living Planet Award.

The award recognizes individuals who make a significant personal contribution to the conservation of the natural world and sustainable development.

WWF International President Yolanda Kakabadse presented the award at an event coinciding with the conference hosted by the US State Department.

"Ms. Pudjiastuti has spent a lifetime fighting illegal fishing, ensuring science-based sustainable fisheries management, and promoting marine health by expanding Indonesias network of marine parks and protected areas. There is no greater champion fighting for the health of Indonesian oceans," Yolanda was quoted as saying in a WWF press statement. 

ANTARA