Professor at FPIK IPB University Calls for Paradigm Shift in Sustainable Capture Fisheries
The urgency of reforming the paradigm of fisheries management in Indonesia has so far been dominated by an exploitative approach. According to Prof Ronny Irawan Wahju, Professor at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, fisheries should be viewed as part of an interconnected social and ecological ecosystem, not merely an economic activity.
“Capture fisheries in Indonesia are facing a crisis in fish stocks due to overfishing, illegal fishing, and ecosystem degradation,” Prof Ronny stated during the Pre-Scientific Lecture Press Conference for IPB University Professors on Thursday (6/12).
He noted that this phenomenon not only threatens national food security but also causes long-term economic and ecological losses.
According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), 34 per cent of global fish stocks are currently overfished, including in the Indonesian Fisheries Management Zone (WPPNRI).
“We need management that is not only based on law but also on ecosystems and spatial justice for small-scale fishermen,” said the IPB University lecturer from the Department of Fishing Management and Technology.
In his speech, Prof Ronny also highlighted the importance of innovation in fishing technology. He emphasised the need to develop selective fishing gear and devices that can reduce bycatch (Bycatch Reduction Device/BRD).
“A successful example can be seen in eel fishing. The use of push nets or sodok has a high effectiveness rate of up to 93,4 per cent with low bycatch, only 6,6 per cent,” he explained.
“Other innovations, such as the use of LED lights on gillnets, have proven to reduce bycatch of protected species like sea turtles, manta rays, and sea cucumbers by up to 60 per cent,” Prof Ronny added.
The issue of ghost gear fishing gear that has been lost and continues to “operate” in the ocean is also a major concern. Economic losses due to ghost gear in some coastal areas are estimated to reach billions of rupiah per year.
To address this, Prof Ronny emphasised the importance of implementing regulations such as gear marking, developing environmentally friendly fishing gear innovations, and strengthening mitigation policies.
From a regulatory perspective, Ministerial Regulation on Marine Affairs and Fisheries (Permen KP) No. 36/2023 already aligns with sustainable fishing zone management principles. However, he noted that the greatest challenge lies in its implementation on the ground. “Without strong oversight and the participation of fishing communities, regulations will struggle to address the issue,” he stated.
Furthermore, the economic losses caused by ghost gear in small-scale fisheries, particularly for nets and traps, are significant. Mitigation efforts using biodegradable materials still require further development.
“In the field, technically, marking on fishing gear is needed to facilitate owner identification. Additionally, a reporting system for lost fishing gear must be established, which has not been functioning because fishermen expect compensation from the government when reporting losses,” he said.
Prof Ronny urged all stakeholders, including central and local governments, research institutions, businesses, and coastal communities, to collaborate in achieving a fishing industry that is not only productive but also fair and sustainable for the future of Indonesia’s seas. (Lp) (IAAS/KDP)
