TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Edhy Prabowo stated he did not rule out the option to change and revise the policy on lobster hatchlings export although he would not step back in enacting the rule.

“Our decisions are indeed not a holy book, it can be changed and revised, but believe us, it is for the interest of the people,” said Edhy in an online discussion on Thursday, July 16.

According to the Gerindra politician, the policy had a basis and had been calculated. “What’s clear is, what we do is not based on our wish to issue a different policy than the previous one,” Edhy added.

He recalled that he received many complaints from lobster industry players since he served in the Commission IV of the House of Representatives (DPR). However, he could adopt the policy after he was tapped as a minister in Jokowi’s second period, replacing Susi Pudjiastuti.

Edhy Prabowo ensured that the policy would be implemented based on the planned procedures despite attracting much criticism, which he considered constructive ones. He was also optimistic that he made the right decision.

The Indonesian government decided to allow the resumption of lobster hatchlings export through the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministerial Regulation No. 12/2020. At least, 31 companies have now obtained export permits.

The policy sparked controversy among the public, including former minister Susi Pudjiastuti.

Read: Civil Coalition Urges Jokowi to Replace Edhy Prabowo

CAESAR AKBAR | FRANCISCA CHRISTY