We will help; the government will provide any incentives as long as the people need it
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has stressed the importance of building superior and reliable human resources to support the development of Maluku as a national fish barn.



He made the statement during a working visit to Tual city and Southeast Maluku district in Maluku province on Wednesday (October 6, 2021). He said the government will build educational facilities according to the region's needs.



"We have agreed to push for education, so that we can educate the sons and daughters of the region. We must pursue this," he said in a written statement received here on Thursday.


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He also observed a seaweed estate area in Southeast Maluku district and reviewed the first export consignment of marine and fishery products in Tual city.



Southeast Maluku district and Tual city have abundant natural resources, especially in their fisheries

sector, the minister highlighted.



Thus, this potential must be utilized as far as possible and managed with good regulations and policies so that the people can reap its benefits, he said.



"That way, the price can also be monitored, so that people can enjoy the results," Pandjaitan remarked.


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He also said he expected fresh fish to be exported in the near future, either by plane or other means of transportation. He then urged the creation of a domestic fishery processing industry.



"This nation should not be a nation that only accepts (fisheries exports). We must have an added value," he reminded.



He further assured that the central government is ready to assist local governments to reach this goal given its potential benefits for the community, local government, and business players.



"We will help; the government will provide any incentives as long as the people need it," Pandjaitan assured.


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In addition, he said he expected the regional government to build superior and competitive human resources, considering that human resources are key to progress, including in the fisheries sector.



"Let's just focus on this. Otherwise, we will become cash cows," he remarked.



He also urged people to pay attention to the environmental side as well, as an effort to support progress and programs. This is because currently, the world is focusing on environmental issues, including the fulfillment of energy sources, he said.



"Diesel is here, we will try alternative solar panels or ocean currents. I think it is necessary to study the water flow that can be converted into electricity to power up the entire island," he added.


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Translator: Ade Irma J, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2021