Jakarta, indomaritim.com – Indonesia is strengthening the protection of marine resources in the North Natuna Sea by building 10 new patrol vessels and expanding the pier at the Batam Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP) Base.
Deputy Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Didit Herdiawan said the fleet expansion is part of the government’s efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, particularly in State Fisheries Management Area (WPPNRI) 711, which covers the North Natuna Sea.
“This fleet expansion must be supported by adequate dock infrastructure capable of accommodating the large patrol vessels currently under construction,” Herdiawan said in a statement on Friday as quoted by Antara News Agency.
He noted that the addition of the 10 Class I patrol vessels will significantly strengthen the ministry’s surveillance fleet, which currently consists of 34 patrol vessels.
Alongside the fleet expansion, the ministry is upgrading the Batam PSDKP Base into the main operational hub for patrol vessels by expanding its dock facilities.
Director General of PSDKP at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Pung Nugroho Saksono said Batam was selected as the primary base for surveillance operations in the North Natuna Sea because of its strategic location.
“Batam will serve as the main base for our patrol vessels operating in WPPNRI 711. These waters remain highly vulnerable to illegal fishing activities,” Saksono said.
He added that the upgraded dock facilities are essential to support the operation of larger patrol vessels and enhance maritime border security.
To ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with regulations, both the patrol vessel construction and dock expansion projects are being carried out under the supervision of the Indonesian Attorney General’s Office, he added.
The North Natuna Sea remains vulnerable to incursions by foreign fishing vessels. Bordering several neighboring countries, the area is rich in fishery resources, making it a frequent target of illegal fishing activities.
Throughout 2025, the Directorate General of PSDKP at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries seized 41 vessels involved in illegal fishing. The total included six foreign vessels – five from Vietnam and one from Malaysia – as well as 35 Indonesian vessels. (Dul)
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