MDPI Strengthens Collaboration with BRIN for Sustainable Fisheries Management in Indonesia

by: Zaki Tristi

Denpasar, 10 September 2024 – MDPI advances support for small-scale fisheries sustainability by signing a cooperation agreement with the National Research and Innovation Agency’s (BRIN) Fisheries, Terrestrial, and Maritime Research Center, on Tuesday, September 10. The signing, held in Bogor, was led by MDPI Director Yasmine Simbolon and Dr. Fayakun Satria from the Agency.

This collaboration focuses on strengthening scientific research, technological innovation, and empowering small-scale fishers in Indonesia, which is a key priority for MDPI. “We see this partnership as a great opportunity to enhance the position of small-scale fishers in the global market while ensuring the long-term sustainability of our fisheries resources,” said Yasmine Simbolon.

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A key focus of this collaboration is the enhanced collection and management of scientific data on handline tuna fisheries in Indonesia. MDPI and BRIN will collaborate in gathering comprehensive data on catch composition, live bait use, and interactions with endangered, threatened, and protected (ETP) species. The data will support yellowfin tuna ecolabel certification and be submitted to the WCPFC and IOTC.

“We are committed to helping small-scale fishers improve data quality and ensure global recognition for certification,” added Yasmine.

Dr. Fayakun Satria from BRIN highlighted the importance of this collaboration for advancing fisheries science. “Through research and monitoring of small-scale fisheries with MDPI, we can strengthen efforts to manage fish resources based on solid scientific data. This will support sustainable use and contribute to national programs for food security and the blue economy,” he stated.

MDPI also plays a key role in developing boat tracking technology for small-scale fishers. This technology aims to verify fishing areas, interactions with ETP species, and ensure catch traceability. With this system, MDPI hopes to enhance the trustworthiness of Indonesian small-scale fishery products in the global market, which increasingly demands transparency in the supply chain.

This version enhances the flow and focuses on clarity while emphasizing the collaboration’s strategic impact.

“This small-scale fisher boat tracking system will open greater opportunities for Indonesian fishery products to enter international markets while preserving the sustainability of our oceans,” said Yasmine Simbolon.

Dr. Fayakun added, “This technology is crucial, not only for verification and traceability but also to ensure that small-scale fishing activities remain within sustainable boundaries. It’s a tangible step we hope will see wider adoption in the future.”

MDPI will also play a central role in implementing the Tuna Harvest Strategy through its scientific observer on-board program and port sampling at key landing sites. These efforts aim to support the Fisheries Management Plan for tuna, skipjack, and neritic tuna, as well as the Fisheries Improvement Program (FIP). The data collected from these activities is vital for maintaining fishery sustainability and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Read also: The Importance of the Tropical Tuna Harvest Strategy for Indonesian Small-scale Fishers

Through this collaboration, MDPI aims to further strengthen small-scale fishers’ access to international markets. “We want to ensure that small-scale fishers can maintain crucial certifications like Fair Trade USA and the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), which are key to boosting the competitiveness of their fishery products in the global market,” explained Yasmine.

MDPI and BRIN will also collaborate to enhance Indonesia’s role in international forums related to tuna management and small-scale fisheries. This participation is crucial to ensure that the voices and needs of Indonesian small-scale fishers are heard globally and that international policies align with on-the-ground conditions.

Additionally, the collaboration includes research and FIP for tuna and other potential fisheries managed by Sahabat Laut Lestari (SLL), MDPI’s social enterprise. This program is expected to support long-term efforts towards sustainable fisheries in Indonesia.

MDPI views this cooperation as a significant milestone in advancing small-scale fisheries in Indonesia. Through robust scientific research, technological innovation, and support for global market access, MDPI aims to empower Indonesian small-scale fishers to contribute to marine sustainability and economic well-being.

“We are very excited about the opportunities this collaboration will create. For MDPI, it is a chance to not only strengthen small-scale fishing communities but also ensure they remain relevant and competitive in the evolving global fisheries sector,” said Yasmine Simbolon.

Dr. Fayakun added, “At BRIN, we hope this collaboration will serve as a model for other sectors in strengthening the link between scientific research and field implementation. We are confident that this partnership will bring substantial benefits to the future of Indonesian fisheries.”