Indonesia's MPR Deputy Chairman Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, known as Ibas, stressed the blue economy's role in strengthening the national food system during National Fishermen's Day. He made the remarks at the MPR's National Discussion in Jakarta on April 6, 2026. Ibas praised fishermen as frontline guardians of food security.
Jakarta – At the MPR's National Discussion titled “Maritime Sovereignty and Fishermen's Welfare in the Blue Economy Era,” Ibas expressed appreciation for Indonesian fishermen's dedication as sea food heroes.
“Happy National Fishermen's Day to us all. Fishermen are the frontline in safeguarding the nation's food security. The sea is our future, and fishermen are its guardians,” Ibas said on Monday, April 6, 2026.
He highlighted global challenges including food and energy crises, plus supply chain disruptions, urging national self-reliance, especially from maritime sectors. “Amid global dynamics, conflicts, energy crises, and supply chain disruptions, we must reaffirm the importance of national food security, including from the maritime sector,” he stated.
Ibas called for real implementation of the blue economy as a sustainable development strategy benefiting public welfare. “The blue economy must not remain just a concept. Blue food must become a real strength in the national food system we build together,” he asserted.
Indonesia boasts vast marine resources like tuna, snapper, grouper, shrimp, lobster, and ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass. He praised policies from President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's era strengthening fishermen institutions and maritime diplomacy, and President Prabowo Subianto's direction for sea-based food security and fisheries investment.
