# Revolutionizing Indonesia’s Maritime Industry: The National Modern Fishing Vessel Program
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has officially launched a strategic initiative to modernize the nation’s fishing fleet, aiming to catalyze productivity and fortify the domestic capture fisheries sector. By deploying 1,582 state-of-the-art fishing vessels between 2026 and 2028, the government is set to transform the industry into a primary engine for national economic growth and coastal prosperity.
## Strategic Fleet Expansion
The modernization program is structured to provide high-capacity, specialized vessels designed for diverse maritime conditions. The fleet composition includes:
* 1,000 vessels: 30 GT (Gross Tonnage) capacity.
* 557 vessels: 200 GT capacity.
* 25 vessels: 500 GT capacity.
These vessels will be equipped with advanced fishing technologies tailored to local needs, including Pelagic Purse Seiners, Gill Nets, Handlines, Bottom Longlines, Tuna Longlines, and Pole-and-Line systems, as well as specialized transport vessels.
## Workforce Development and Job Creation
This massive infrastructure project serves as a cornerstone for long-term employment, requiring a total of 20,094 qualified fishing crew members. The personnel demand is divided into:
* 8,676 Officers: Including Captains, Chief Engineers, Fishing Masters, Mates, and Assistant Engineers.
* 11,418 Crew Members: Including refrigeration operators, radio operators, oilers, bosuns, and deckhands.
## General Requirements for Applicants
To ensure the highest standards of safety and operational excellence, all candidates must meet the following baseline criteria:
* Must be an Indonesian Citizen (WNI).
* Minimum education level of Elementary School (SD) or equivalent (must demonstrate basic literacy).
* Physically and mentally fit, with no physical disabilities, color blindness, or strabismus (certified by an authorized health facility).
* Possess a clean criminal record (SKCK).
* Provide a drug-free certification (NAPZA) from an authorized institution.
* Possess a valid Job Seeker Card (AK-1) from the local Manpower Office.
* Hold a valid Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) Level II certificate.
* Commit to a minimum one-year tenure working on modern fishing vessels and agree to deployment anywhere across Indonesian waters.
## Specialized Role Prerequisites
Candidates applying for specific technical and command positions must provide documented proof of experience and certification:
Command and Technical Leadership
* Captains & Chief Engineers: Requires at least 3 years of verified experience in the respective role and current competency certification (SKN Nautika/Teknika or SKK 60 Miles).
* Mates & Assistant Engineers: Requires either a minimum of 24 months of sea service or being a graduate/active cadet from a maritime educational institution with ANKAPIN/ATKAPIN Level II certification.
Operational and Deck Support
* Operators & Oilmen: A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in the specific field.
* Bosun (Chief Deckhand): A minimum of 2 years of proven experience in deck operations.
* Deckhands: Preference is given to those holding valid BST-F Level II certificates and prior maritime experience.
## Mandatory Administrative Documentation
Applicants must prepare a comprehensive portfolio for the selection process, which includes:
1. Copy of National Identity Card (KTP) and Family Card (KK).
2. Recent 4x6 color photographs (red background).
3. Academic certificates (Diploma/STTB/SKL).
4. Relevant competency and skill certificates.
5. Seaman’s Book (Buku Pelaut).
6. Valid Job Seeker Card (Optional).
7. Official health, drug-free, and police clearance records.
8. Written employment history/experience letters (if available).
This ambitious modernization effort represents more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it is a vital investment in the livelihoods of Indonesia’s coastal communities and a sustainable step forward for the global competitiveness of our national maritime industry.