He expressed hope that the initiative would significantly improve fishermen’s welfare.
“We hope the Red and White Fisheries Village can truly boost Batam’s fishing economy,” Trenggono said.
The three locations—Tanjung Banun, Kasu, and Sekanak Raya—were confirmed by Batam City Fisheries Office Head Yudi Admajianto.
The Red and White Fisheries Village Initiative (Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih, or KNMP) is a flagship program launched by the Indonesian government to modernize and economically empower coastal fishing communities across the country
The KNMP’s first phase will launch on September 2 across 65 villages nationwide, with 35 more proposed for phase two. Batam aims to secure all three of its submissions.
The program is expected to make a major impact.
In Sembulang, for example, it could create 414 jobs and raise annual fisheries output from 700 to 800 tons.
Key commodities include swimming crab, anchovies, rabbitfish, and grouper. Supporting infrastructure will include a port, gas station, ice factory, and workshops.
Deputy Mayor Li Claudia Chandra emphasized that success hinges on community involvement. “These programs are community-led and community-managed,” she said, urging fishermen to take ownership.
Translator: Amandine Nadja, Martha Herlinawati Simanjuntak
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
