Jayapura, Jubi – Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa has described the province’s firsr fish export shipment from Paumako Fish Landing Port (PPI Paumako) in Mimika Regency as a major milestone in the development of Central Papua’s economy.

Speaking at the launch of ceremony on Tuesday, Nawipa said the inaugural export represented more than a ceremonial event, marking Central Papua’s entry into the international seafood market.

“This is an important milestone for Central Papua’s economy. It is proof that the rich marine resources of Central Papua are beginning to reach the global market. It also reflects the hard work of our fishermen, who have taken their catch beyond our shores and into international trade,” he said.

The first shipment consists of three containers of pomfret caught by fishermen form Akar, Kipia, and Prerongo villages, destined for overseas markets.

According to Nawipa, around 10,000 fishermen in Mimika rely on the sea for their livelihoods, and the first export shipment represent long overdue recognition of their contribution.

To support the sector, the provincial government will provide 10 fishing boats and engines to local fishermen this year, with plans to expand the program if it proves successful.

“To some, this may be just three containers of fish. For us, it symbolizes hope, courage, and the ability of Central Papua’s coastal communities to compete in the global market,” Nawipa said.

He added that every exported shipment represents more than economic value, it reflects the dedication of fishermen, the hopes of families waiting for them to return safely from the sea, and the aspirations of Papuan children seeking better educational opportunities and more prosperous future.

Nawipa said, Central Papua fisheries sector holds enormous potential. Fishing vessels operating from Paumako Port come not only from Papua but also from other parts of Indonesia, including Jakarta, Batang, Pekalongan, and Indramayu underscoring Mimika’s growing roles as one of eastern Indonesia’s strategic fisheries hubs.

The provincial government is also working with the Mimika Regency administration to improve facilities at PPI Paumako and develop it into a regional fish auction center.

More than 200 fishing vessels licensed by the central government and over 60 licensed by regional authorities currently operate in the area, he said.

Nawipa noted that PPI Paumako is supported by a 120-meter jetty and forms part of a broader fisheries development network that includes the 62-hectare PPI Waharia fisheries area in Nabire Regency.

He said the infrastructure would provide a strong foundation for the growth of Central Papua’s maritime economy. The provincial government also plans to build a fishing port and cold storage facilities in Nabira while continuing to upgrade PPI Paumako.

“We have also begun discussions with several fisheries companies on partnerships with the provincial and regency governments so that we can maximize the potential of our marine resources,” (*)