The Red and White Fishermen Village (KNMP) Bentenge in Bulukumba District, South Sulawesi, has successfully completed its inaugural export shipment of nearly one ton of fresh fish to Saudi Arabia. This marks a significant expansion for local fishermen into international markets.
Expanding Market Reach
The initial shipment, consisting of tiger grouper and Spanish mackerel, was transported by refrigerated trucks to Makassar on Friday and then flown to Jeddah the same day. Trian Yunanda, Head of the KNMP Development Implementation Coordination Team, stated the program’s core objective is to boost community productivity and broaden market access for local catches.
Infrastructure at KNMP Bulukumba is nearing completion, with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries providing essential facilities. These include refrigerated trucks, boats, engines, and fishing gear, all intended for eventual cooperative management.
Comprehensive Facilities
KNMP Bentenge is equipped with a range of facilities designed to support fishing activities. These include boat mooring, fish landing shelters, a dedicated fuel station, workshops, supply kiosks, and a fishermen’s hall. A critical component is the developing cold chain infrastructure, featuring a portable ice plant, cool boxes, refrigerated trucks, and cold storage.
Muh Thaiyeb Maningkasi, Head of the Bulukumba Marine and Fisheries Office, anticipates the development will provide vital support to the region’s fisheries sector and centralize local activities.
Future Growth Potential
Following the initial shipment, exporters have reportedly requested up to 2.5 tons of fish per day. Bulukumba also produces red snapper, scad, and various high-value reef fish species. The availability of cold storage and refrigerated trucks at KNMP is expected to help fishermen meet this increased demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Red and White Fishermen Villages program?
The program aims to transform fishermen villages into modern, productive, and competitive hubs by improving fishermen’s welfare through facility upgrades and better market access.
What types of fish does Bulukumba produce?
Bulukumba produces tiger grouper, Spanish mackerel, red snapper, scad, and various high-value reef fish species.
What is the timeline for the nationwide expansion of these villages?
The ministry plans to establish 1,000 Red and White Fishermen Villages nationwide by 2026, supporting food security and President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita missions.
Will the increased demand from Saudi Arabia lead to further investment in Bulukumba’s fishing infrastructure and capacity?
Worth a look