If the ship-sinking policy was aimed at preserving sovereignty, we should do it
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia will continue the policy of sinking boats found to be illegally fishing in its waters, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Edhy Prabowo said. The effort was intended to maintain the sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).

"If the ship-sinking policy was aimed at preserving sovereignty, we should do it," Edhy said at the State Palace complex, Jakarta, Wednesday.

If the government has signed an agreement and there is a notification regarding the border with a friendly country, the regulation must be enforced as a last resort.

Before conducting the ship-sinking policy, the government should ensure that the fishing boat is illegally fishing in Indonesian waters.

About the management of domestic fishermen, he said he plans to foster the fishermen to catch fish according to regulations.

"We will guide the domestic fishermen on how to catch fish based on the regulations," he said.

He would also continue to improve the aquaculture industry in Indonesia, Prabowo said.

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) earlier made an official announcement of the new cabinet line-up for the second-term of his administration and made seven instructions amply clear for the ministers to follow.

"Do not become involved in corruption. Create a system that closes loopholes for corruption," Jokowi remarked at the Merdeka Palace here Wednesday.

Secondly, he drew attention to the absence of a ministerial vision and mission, despite the president and vice president having in place their vision and mission.

Thirdly, the president urged his ministers to work in a hard, fast, and productive manner.

Fourthly, he reminded the ministers to not become trapped in routine and monotonous activities.

"Works must be oriented toward getting concrete results. Our task is not only limited to 'sent' but until 'delivered,'" Jokowi emphasized.

He earlier pointed out that a minister must not only carry out and complete his works but must also ensure that the people benefit from it.

He also instructed his minister to check problems on the field and find solutions.

The last instruction of the president stressed on the need for ministers to work seriously. (INE)
Related news: Indonesia has sunk 556 illegal boats: Pudjiastuti
Related news: Boat sinking policy to not affect ties with neighbors: Observer

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Translator: Bayu P, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Suharto
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