Prabowo: Smart People in Jakarta Don't Care About Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto, speaking from Gorontalo, has directly addressed the long-standing neglect of Indonesia's vital fishing communities. In a clear departure from past policies, he articulated a vision where the welfare of fishermen and farmers nationwide will be a central pillar of his administration. This is not just rhetoric; it's a recognition of the immense risks these individuals undertake daily to provide for their families and contribute to the nation's food security.

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Fishermen are often forgotten. The smart people in Jakarta do not care about the fate of fishermen.

Prabowo's remarks, particularly his jab at "smart people in Jakarta" who allegedly disregard the plight of fishermen, resonate deeply within coastal communities. For too long, the focus has been on urban development, leaving those who depend on the sea feeling marginalized. His commitment to prioritizing these communities signals a significant shift in national focus, aiming to rectify historical oversights and foster a sense of inclusion.

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It is time for change. The government will now pay attention to all fishermen and farmers throughout Indonesia.

The announcement of building 1,582 new fishing vessels, to be managed through cooperatives, is a concrete step towards empowering these communities. This initiative, framed within the concept of the "blue economy," underscores Indonesia's commitment to leveraging its vast marine resources for the benefit of its own citizens. It's a strategy that not only aims to improve livelihoods but also to bolster national economic sovereignty by preventing foreign exploitation of Indonesian waters.

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I understand that fishermen face enormous risks. The sea is not something trivial. Weather and currents can change at any time. You risk your lives to provide food for your families, your communities, and your nation.

From our perspective here in Indonesia, this is more than just policy; it's about national pride and recognizing the backbone of our archipelago. While Western media might focus on the economic implications, for us, it's about honoring the resilience and contribution of our fishermen, who are the true custodians of our maritime wealth. President Prabowo's direct engagement and promises signal a new era of attention and investment in these crucial sectors.

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We do not want foreign ships taking fish from our waters. We want our own people to benefit from them.