"The maritime resources is the key to increase our people`s welfare and economic equality," noted Widodo.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesias President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) is committed to intensifying the efforts to enhance maritime economic sector for peoples welfare, as the sea had been ignored for a long time.
"In fact, our wealth is in the sea, our natural resources are in the sea," he said in his remarks during a maritime cultural fiesta called Mappanretasi in Pagatan beach, Tanah Bambu Sub-district, Tanah Bambu District, South Kalimantan Province, on Sunday.
The Indonesian President claims that the maritime sector could contribute Rp17 thousand trillion or about US$125 billion per year to the domestic economy.
"The maritime resources is the key to increase our peoples welfare and economic equality," noted Widodo.
Therefore, President reassured his commitment to develop the blue economy, including by establishing deep sea ports and combating illegal fishing in the Indonesian waters.
While attending the event, President Jokowi, who was given a traditional title called "Kapiteng Lau Pulo" by the Tanah Bambus society, said the Sea fiesta is one of proofs that the people live in harmony with the oceans since a long time ago.
During his visit in Tanah Bambu District, President Jokowi presented also Smart Indonesia Cards (KIP), supplement food (PMT), Family of Hope Program assistance (PKH), and Healthy Indonesia Cards (KIS) to local people.
On Sunday afternoon, he will present land certificates to several villagers in Tambang Ulang Sub-district, Tanah Laut District.
In the evening, the President and the First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo will stay overnight in Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan before leaving for Ternate, North Maluku.
Members of his entourage include Minister of Education and Culture Muhadjir Effendy, Health Minister Nila Moeloek and chief of the presidential staff Teten Masduki.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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