"We certainly would make sure that the interest of traditional fishermen would not be sacrificed," the minister said.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Marine and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti pledges protection for the interest of traditional fishermen if the reclamation project in the Jakarta bay would be continued.

"We certainly would make sure that the interest of traditional fishermen would not be sacrificed," Susi said here on Thursday.

Susi was among the ones supporting the decision of former Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Rizal Ramli in cancelling the project against Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahajka Purnama (Ahok).

Luhut Binsar Panjaitan, who replaced Rizal Ramli as new Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs, however, indicated that work could continue to carry out the project.

Susi said the reclamation project could be continued provided that the interest of the stakeholders is not sacrificed and the environment is not damaged.

She said if the developers failed to meet any of the requirements the reclamation project may not be continued.

Earlier she called for an end to attempt to set government officials against each other over the controversy about the reclamation project.

"Dont try to politicize the reclamation project and set us against each other to create more political noise.

"As Mr Luhut has said we are all carrying out the vision and mission of the President," she said.

Many believe Rizal Ramli fell out of his position as a result of his involvement in political squabbling with other minister and Jakarta governor .

Forestry and Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya, who also has expressed opposition to the reclamation project especially the man-made G island, said the developers are drafting new document about environment.

"What is most important is the change in the environment document. The developer is preparing the new document," Siti said after reporting to the president earlier this month.

The developers are building 17 man made islets off the coast of Jakarta adding around 5,100 hectares , around half the size of Bogor, to the total land area of Jakarta.

The controversy is mainly on the G island as it is said to be located in traditional fishing ground and hamper traffic of fishing boats and damage the environment.

Modern property buildings , including hotels and other facilities would be built on the islands.

Eight of the 17 planned island are already properly licensed and construction is underway .

Jakarta Governor Ahok denies all allegations against the projects saying Jakarta would benefit from the project.

Protests and opposition to the projects had also come from environmental activists and a fishermens association.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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