TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Head of the illegal fishing task force Mas Achmad Santosa claims that many countries have applauded Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti`s strategy in destroying illegal fishing vessels.
“They also see Indonesia’s firmness as a model to be followed. That must be recognized as a compliment for Pak Jokowi,” said Santosa on Wednesday, January 10.
According to him, Susi Pudjiastuti is the only one who followed the orders of President Jokowi to sink illegal foreign boats. “Bu Susi is only carrying out the law and assisting the president. Considering that Pak Jokowi is committed to eradicating fish thefts by foreign boats,” he added.
Read: Policy of Sinking Illegal Fishing Boats Comes to an End: VP Kalla
According to Santosa, sinking the illegal fishing boats is the end-goal to create a deterrent effect. He also added that sinking the boats guilty for illegal fishing is meant to develop the fisheries industry and empower fishermen.
Meanwhile, Minister Susi explained in a Youtube video uploaded by the ministry’s official account KKP News that what she is doing is in accordance with the Law on Fisheries No. 45/2009. She said that the ministry has succeeded to destroy and sink 363 illegal fishing boats during the past three years.
Minister Susi Pudjiastuti also explained that 90 percent of the boat destroying was based on a court verdict that required the ministry to do so.
Kartika Anggraeni
