Wednesday, 30 September 2026
PADANG | INDATANEWS.COM - Minister of Manpower Yassierli has expressed his support for the development of businesses in the fisheries sector, which has significant potential to create new jobs while absorbing local workers. The support is part of efforts to promote economic growth among local communities by strengthening the fisheries sector around Bungus Ocean Fishing Port in Padang, West Sumatra.
Yassierli conveyed his support during a visit to a fish processing facility in the Bungus Ocean Fishing Port area on Friday, September 25, 2026. During the visit, he directly observed the operations of a fishery product processing business established by a young entrepreneur from the local community.According to Yassierli, fish processing businesses not only add value to fishery products but also create employment opportunities for people living in surrounding areas. Therefore, the government needs to support businesses with strong growth prospects and the potential to create new jobs.
"As long as there is potential to create new jobs, I will, God willing, certainly support it," Yassierli said.In his view, fisheries development does not depend solely on fishing activities. Processing the catch also plays an important role because it produces higher-value products while requiring workers at various stages of production.
Yassierli said the development of the sector requires continuous support, particularly in improving workers' skills so they can meet industry requirements. The availability of qualified workers is an important factor in maintaining business productivity and sustainability.The Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker), through its vocational training and productivity centers, regularly provides vocational training for workers and fishermen. The training programs are adapted to evolving local needs so participants can acquire skills relevant to their respective occupations.
The training program also includes operational support and allowances for participants. These measures are intended to improve public access to vocational training while strengthening the skills of workers in the fisheries sector.Improving workforce qualifications is becoming increasingly important amid the growing demand from the fish processing industry. Workers equipped with skills required by individual businesses can help increase productivity and support companies in expanding their production capacity.
Such cooperation could also improve efficiency in the processing of fishery products. With better management, fishermen's catches could not only be sold as raw materials but also processed into various products with higher economic value.
Yassierli sees strengthening the value chain from upstream to downstream as having the potential to generate broader economic benefits for local communities. Fishermen could receive support for their fishing activities, while processing companies could benefit from adequate supplies of raw materials and workers for their production operations.At the same time, the development of the processing industry could create opportunities for new businesses to emerge in surrounding areas. This could generate additional employment opportunities and strengthen economic activity within local communities.
On the occasion, business owners also conveyed various needs related to fisheries operations in the Bungus area. One of the issues raised was the need for an adequate supply of subsidized fuel.In addition to subsidized fuel, business owners highlighted the need for clean water to support their operations. The availability of both facilities is considered important, as around 70 to 80 fishing boats operate in the area.
The supporting facilities needed are directly linked to the smooth operation of fisheries activities. Therefore, the provision of adequate infrastructure and operational facilities is an important component in maintaining the productivity of economic activities around Bungus Ocean Fishing Port.
In response to the needs raised by business owners, Yassierli said he was prepared to facilitate communication with relevant ministries and government agencies. In his view, matters outside the authority of the Ministry of Manpower still require cross-sector coordination to find appropriate solutions.
The move is part of government efforts to create a business environment that supports economic growth and job creation. The development of the fisheries sector must also be accompanied by improvements in workforce skills and the provision of adequate operational facilities.Yassierli emphasized that developing the Bungus fisheries area requires cooperation among various stakeholders. The central government, regional government, businesses, fishermen and workers each have their respective roles in ensuring sustainable economic activities in the area.
Through such coordination, the government hopes that various challenges faced by businesses can be addressed gradually. Strengthening the fisheries sector is also expected to contribute to creating more employment opportunities while increasing the added value of local fishery products."We will continue to work together to address concerns related to operational facilities and the efficiency of this area so that economic activities in the fisheries sector in Bungus can continue to develop sustainably," Yassierli said. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Ahmad Zulfikar | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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