TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Prabowo Subianto has drawn attention to the risks faced by fishermen, saying his government will place greater focus on improving their welfare across Indonesia.
Prabowo made the remarks while visiting the Red and White Fishermen Village (KNMP) in Leato Selatan District, Gorontalo City, on Saturday, May 9, 2026. He said fishing remains a dangerous livelihood due to unpredictable natural conditions and harsh sea environments.
“I understand that fishermen face great risks. The sea is treacherous. Weather and currents can change. You risk your lives to provide for your families, your communities, and your nation. I thank you,” Prabowo said, according to a written statement from the Presidential Secretariat.
The Head of State also stressed his commitment to improving welfare and recognition for fishing communities, noting that they have long been overlooked in national development priorities.
“Therefore, I am determined to improve the welfare and recognition of our fishermen throughout Indonesia. Fishermen are often forgotten,” the former defense minister said.
The Red and White Fishermen Village in Leato Selatan, Gorontalo, is one of the first-phase pilot projects that has begun operations. Prabowo visited the site after earlier traveling to Miangas Island in the Talaud Islands, North Sulawesi, on the same day.
He said several facilities in the Gorontalo village are already operational, including ice production units and cold storage warehouses to support fishermen’s catches. According to him, the program is designed to strengthen coastal livelihoods and improve incomes.
“We want all fishermen in Indonesia to have better lives. Their income must increase because fishermen play a crucial role in our nation,” he said.
:strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kly-media-production/medias/5485282/original/038819000_1769501489-pikojerico-175__1_.jpg.jpeg)
