President Hopes Maritime Sector Will Become Key Driver Of Economy

JAKARTA, Sept 14 (Antara) - The maritime and fishery sector could become a key driver of the Indonesian economy, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said. "There is a global economic slowdown. And we want the maritime and fishery sector to become an economy driver," the head of state said while chairing a limited cabinet meeting at his presidential office, here, Tuesday. The maritime sector's contribution to the GDP is less than 30 percent, while in reality 2/3 of Indonesian area is water, according to the president. "I think we still have a huge maritime and fishery potential that has not been utilized optimally," he said. He was pleased that the national fight against illegal fishing activities had shown positive results. "The fish stock has surged, and this should be utilized for the welfare of fishermen as well to meet the domestic demand for fish consumption. It could also bring in foreign exchange from exports," he said. He urged the development of the fish processing, canned fish and fishery industries. "We must make improvements. Whatever it is, it will absorb manpower," he added. To support these industries, relevant infrastructure and facilities must be made ready, including adequate fish supply, fishing boats, roads to harbors, electricity and land for processing industry. Jokowi has instructed the co-ordinating minister for maritime affairs, and the maritime affairs and fisheries minister to accelerate the development of the fishery industry. "Cut regulations that have complicated procedures and hampered investment," he said. The head of state also instructed the modernization of fishery industrial hubs. "We must have it in place next year at the latest. The maritime affairs and fisheries minister has promised me. I will wait until next year," he remarked. Among those present at the meeting were Co-ordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti, Co-ordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Darmin Nasution and Finance Minister Sri Mulyani.