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Strengthening Fisherman Capacity: A Holistic Approach for the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih Program in Pati, Central Java

by Iffa Jayyana July 20, 2026

written by Iffa Jayyana

The effective empowerment of fishermen is a critical cornerstone for the successful realization of the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) program, a national initiative designed to uplift Indonesia’s coastal communities. Beyond the fundamental development of physical infrastructure, a comprehensive strategy encompassing enhanced skills, robust institutional frameworks, and adequate social protection is deemed indispensable to ensure the program’s benefits are genuinely felt by those who rely on the sea for their livelihoods. This overarching perspective was the central theme of a recent discussion forum titled "Ngobrol Bareng Nelayan: Strengthening Pati Fishermen in Support of the KNMP Priority Program in Central Java," which convened hundreds of fishermen and coastal residents at the KNMP Banyutowo in Dukuhseti District, Pati Regency, on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The forum underscored that a multi-faceted approach, integrating various elements of support, is vital for fostering resilient, self-sufficient, and prosperous fishing communities.

The "Ngobrol Bareng Nelayan" Forum: A Platform for Dialogue and Collaboration

The "Ngobrol Bareng Nelayan" (Chatting with Fishermen) forum served as a crucial platform for direct engagement between fishermen, local government officials, state-owned enterprises, and community leaders. Held within the vibrant setting of KNMP Banyutowo, the event on July 19, 2026, was not merely a ceremonial gathering but a dynamic exchange of ideas aimed at identifying practical solutions and fostering a shared vision for the future of Pati’s fishing sector. Participants engaged in candid discussions about the challenges they face, ranging from fluctuating fish prices and unpredictable weather patterns to the need for modern fishing equipment and better access to markets. The forum highlighted the importance of a bottom-up approach, ensuring that the voices and needs of the fishermen themselves are central to policy formulation and program implementation.

Barri Pratama, Director of PT Sarana Patra Hulu Cepu (SPHC), a state-owned enterprise deeply involved in the region, articulated the imperative for sustained and collaborative efforts in fisherman empowerment. He emphasized that the benefits of the KNMP program can only be fully realized through a concerted partnership among all stakeholders. Pratama elaborated that strengthening the fishing community transcends mere skill improvement; it necessitates the cultivation of a healthy, competitive, and sustainable ecosystem. "SPHC is committed to consistently providing tangible support for initiatives that directly benefit the community," Pratama stated in a press release issued on Monday, July 20, 2026, reinforcing the company’s dedication to its Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) programs. This commitment aligns with the broader national mandate for state-owned enterprises to contribute meaningfully to regional development and social welfare, extending their impact beyond their primary commercial operations.

Understanding the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) Program

The Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) program represents a significant national strategic initiative launched by the Indonesian government to revitalize and develop coastal communities across the archipelago. Conceived as a holistic development model, KNMP aims to transform traditional fishing villages into modern, economically vibrant, and environmentally sustainable centers. The program’s objectives extend far beyond mere infrastructure provision, encompassing a broader vision for social equity, economic resilience, and ecological preservation.

Historically, Indonesian fishing communities have often faced systemic challenges, including limited access to capital, rudimentary fishing technologies, inadequate infrastructure for landing and processing, and vulnerability to market fluctuations and climate change. Many coastal areas also grapple with issues of poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and insufficient social safety nets. The KNMP program seeks to address these multifaceted issues by integrating various development components. Its implementation typically involves several phases, beginning with needs assessments and community consultations, followed by infrastructure development, capacity building initiatives, and the establishment of robust local institutions. The program’s "Merah Putih" (Red and White) moniker symbolizes national pride and unity, reflecting a commitment to elevating these communities as integral to Indonesia’s economic and social fabric. In Central Java, a province with a substantial coastline and a significant number of fishing communities, the KNMP program holds particular relevance, promising to unlock the vast potential of its maritime resources while improving the quality of life for thousands of fishermen and their families.

Pillars of Fisherman Empowerment: A Holistic Approach

The discussions at the Pati forum, and the KNMP program itself, highlight four interconnected pillars crucial for sustainable fisherman empowerment: infrastructure development, skill enhancement, institutional strengthening, and social protection. Each pillar plays a vital role in creating a robust and resilient fishing community.

Infrastructure Development: While the focus of the forum was on capacity building, the importance of physical infrastructure cannot be overstated. Modern and well-maintained infrastructure forms the backbone of an efficient fishing industry. This includes improved fishing ports with adequate docking facilities, cold storage units to preserve catches, processing facilities to add value to raw seafood, and reliable transportation networks to access markets. In many traditional fishing villages, rudimentary infrastructure often leads to post-harvest losses, reduced product quality, and limited market reach. The KNMP program typically includes provisions for upgrading these essential facilities, which in turn supports the economic viability of fishing operations and allows fishermen to command better prices for their products. For instance, the availability of ice-making machines and cold storage can significantly extend the shelf life of fish, enabling fishermen to diversify their markets and reduce reliance on immediate sales at often unfavorable prices.
Skill Enhancement and Capacity Building: The core of the "Ngobrol Bareng Nelayan" forum revolved around this pillar. Hadi Santosa, Head of the Department of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DKP) for Pati Regency, underscored the critical need for fishermen to enhance the quality of their catches and actively participate in available training programs. This extends beyond basic fishing techniques to encompass a range of modern skills. Training programs often cover sustainable fishing practices (e.g., selective fishing gear, avoiding overfishing), navigation using modern GPS and sonar technology, basic marine safety, engine maintenance, and even financial literacy and business management. By acquiring these skills, fishermen can operate more efficiently, safely, and profitably. Furthermore, capacity building can also involve teaching value-added processing techniques, such as making fish crackers, smoked fish, or other processed seafood products, which can significantly increase their income potential and diversify their economic activities beyond raw fish sales.
Institutional Strengthening: The collective strength of fishermen often lies in their ability to organize and act cohesively. Strengthening fishermen’s institutions, such as cooperatives or community-based organizations, is paramount. These institutions can serve multiple functions: facilitating access to credit and capital, bulk purchasing of supplies (fuel, nets), collective marketing of catches, and acting as a unified voice for advocating their interests to local and national governments. Barri Pratama of SPHC specifically mentioned that the KNMP program is also directed towards strengthening the economy of coastal communities and fishermen’s institutions, indicating a recognition that individual empowerment is amplified through collective action. A well-managed cooperative, for example, can negotiate better prices with buyers, provide micro-loans to members, and offer shared resources that individual fishermen might not be able to afford.
Social Protection and Welfare: Hadi Santosa explicitly highlighted the importance of social protection through BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (Workers Social Security Agency) membership, given the inherently high risks associated with working at sea. Fishing is one of the most dangerous professions globally, with risks ranging from adverse weather conditions and equipment failure to accidents at sea. Without adequate social protection, an injury or illness can quickly plunge a fisherman and their family into financial hardship. BPJS Ketenagakerjaan provides crucial benefits such as work accident insurance, death benefits, and old-age savings, offering a vital safety net for fishermen and their families. This aspect of welfare is often overlooked but is fundamental to ensuring long-term stability and resilience within the community. Ensuring wide coverage for informal workers like fishermen is a key policy challenge, and active promotion and facilitated access are essential.

Stakeholder Perspectives and Collaborative Commitments

The success of the KNMP program in Pati, and indeed nationwide, hinges on robust collaboration among various stakeholders. The forum in Banyutowo brought together key actors, each articulating their commitment and specific roles.

PT Sarana Patra Hulu Cepu (SPHC): As a state-owned enterprise, SPHC’s participation through its TJSL program exemplifies the broader governmental strategy to involve SOEs in community development. Barri Pratama’s statement underscores SPHC’s commitment to creating a sustainable and competitive ecosystem for fishermen. Their involvement extends beyond mere financial sponsorship, often including direct engagement in capacity-building initiatives, providing resources for infrastructure upgrades, or supporting entrepreneurship programs within coastal communities. This form of corporate social responsibility is integral to the Indonesian government’s push for SOEs to be agents of change and development, particularly in regions where their operations are located or where national strategic programs are being implemented.
Pati Regency’s Department of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DKP): Hadi Santosa, representing the local government, emphasized the DKP’s role in guiding fishermen towards quality improvement and leveraging available training. The DKP is crucial for implementing national and provincial fisheries policies at the local level, providing extension services, monitoring fishing activities, and facilitating access to various governmental support programs. Their active encouragement for fishermen to join BPJS Ketenagakerjaan highlights a proactive stance on worker welfare, recognizing the unique occupational hazards faced by fishermen. The DKP also plays a vital role in data collection, which is essential for informed policy-making and resource management.
Local Community and Youth Leadership: Subaskoro, a prominent youth figure from Banyutowo and a fisheries entrepreneur, provided an invaluable local perspective. He asserted that the success of KNMP Banyutowo transcends mere budgetary allocations, emphasizing the crucial role of collective cohesion and active community participation in managing coastal resources. This highlights the importance of local ownership and leadership. Without the active involvement and buy-in from the community, even the best-designed programs can falter. Subaskoro’s perspective underscores that empowerment is not just something done to a community but something achieved by a community, driven by internal motivation and collective effort. Local entrepreneurs like Subaskoro can also serve as catalysts for economic growth, demonstrating viable business models and creating local employment opportunities.
Juwana Fisheries Port Authority: Driyanto, Head of Juwana Fisheries Port, provided practical guidance for fishermen seeking tangible assistance. He urged fishing groups requiring equipment aid to submit proposals to the Central Java Provincial Department of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, adhering to established mechanisms. The Juwana Port is a significant fisheries hub in Central Java, and its authority plays a critical role in regulating fishing activities, providing port services, and acting as a conduit between local fishermen and provincial-level support programs. Their guidance is essential for ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most, through proper channels and transparent processes.
Provincial Government (Inferred): While not explicitly quoted in detail, the involvement of the Provincial Department of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, as mentioned by Driyanto, signifies the crucial role of the provincial administration. The Central Java Provincial Government is responsible for coordinating various programs, allocating resources, and setting regional priorities within the broader national framework of KNMP. Their oversight ensures that local initiatives align with provincial development goals and that larger-scale support, such as for expensive fishing equipment or regional infrastructure projects, can be facilitated.

Challenges and Opportunities in Indonesia’s Fisheries Sector

Despite concerted efforts like the KNMP program, Indonesia’s fisheries sector faces a complex array of challenges, but also harbors immense opportunities.

Challenges: These include the ongoing threat of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which depletes fish stocks and undermines the livelihoods of legitimate fishermen. Climate change presents significant risks, altering ocean temperatures, currents, and fish migration patterns, leading to unpredictable catches. Market access and price volatility remain constant concerns, often exacerbated by a lack of processing infrastructure and market information. Many small-scale fishermen also struggle with limited capital to invest in better equipment or upgrade their boats, perpetuating a cycle of low productivity. The generational gap, with younger generations often seeking opportunities outside the traditional fishing sector, also poses a long-term challenge to the continuity of fishing communities.
Opportunities: Indonesia, as the world’s largest archipelagic nation, possesses extraordinary maritime potential. The "blue economy" concept, which emphasizes sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ocean ecosystem health, offers a guiding framework. There’s significant potential in developing sustainable aquaculture, which can reduce pressure on wild fish stocks and provide a stable source of income. Eco-tourism in coastal areas can also diversify local economies. Furthermore, the adoption of digital technologies, such as e-commerce platforms for selling fish directly to consumers or using satellite data for more efficient fishing, can revolutionize the sector, improving market access and operational efficiency for fishermen.

Broader Economic and Social Implications

The successful implementation of capacity building initiatives within the KNMP program in Pati carries profound economic and social implications for the region and the nation.

Poverty Reduction: By empowering fishermen with better skills, access to resources, and social protection, the program directly contributes to poverty alleviation in coastal communities. Increased income, diversified livelihoods, and improved welfare reduce vulnerability and enhance the overall quality of life.
Food Security: A more productive and sustainable fisheries sector contributes significantly to national food security. By ensuring stable and abundant fish supplies, the program helps meet the dietary needs of the Indonesian population, especially in a country where fish is a primary source of protein.
Sustainable Resource Management: The emphasis on sustainable fishing practices and institutional strengthening supports responsible stewardship of marine resources. This is crucial for long-term ecological balance and ensures that future generations can also benefit from healthy oceans.
Regional Development: Vibrant fishing communities stimulate broader regional development. Improved infrastructure, increased economic activity, and enhanced social services in coastal areas create a ripple effect, fostering growth in related sectors such as trade, logistics, and local tourism. This contributes to a more balanced and equitable development across the country.

The Path Forward: Sustaining Momentum and Ensuring Inclusivity

The "Ngobrol Bareng Nelayan" forum in Pati serves as a powerful reminder that the journey towards empowering fishermen is ongoing and requires continuous dedication. The future success of the KNMP program in Banyutowo and other coastal villages will depend on several critical factors. There must be a sustained commitment from all stakeholders—government at all levels, private sector entities like SPHC, and, most importantly, the fishing communities themselves. Regular monitoring and evaluation mechanisms are essential to track progress, identify shortcomings, and adapt strategies as needed.

Furthermore, policy frameworks must continue to evolve to address emerging challenges, such as the impacts of climate change and the need for greater adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. Ensuring inclusivity, particularly for women and youth within fishing communities, will also be vital for fostering holistic development and maximizing human potential. Women often play crucial roles in post-harvest processing and marketing, and their empowerment through training and access to capital can significantly boost household incomes. Engaging youth is key to introducing innovation and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fishing profession.

Ultimately, the vision for the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih program in Pati, as highlighted by the collaborative discussions, is not just about building better infrastructure or providing more training. It is about fostering resilient, self-sufficient, and thriving communities that can navigate the complexities of a changing world, contribute robustly to the national economy, and preserve their unique cultural heritage for generations to come. The collective effort demonstrated in Pati is a promising indicator of the transformative potential inherent in a truly integrated approach to coastal community development.

July 20, 2026 0 comment

Business and Finance

Apakah bensin dicampur minyak kayu putih bisa lebih irit?

by Nila Kartika Wati July 19, 2026

written by Nila Kartika Wati

The Genesis of a Viral Claim: Eucalyptus Oil and Fuel Economy

The concept of enhancing fuel efficiency is a perennial concern for vehicle owners, driven by fluctuating fuel prices, economic pressures, and a growing environmental consciousness. In this landscape, any perceived solution that promises to reduce fuel costs quickly captures public attention. The recent surge in popularity of eucalyptus oil as a potential fuel additive originated from anecdotal accounts and social media discussions, quickly evolving into a viral phenomenon. Users shared personal experiences, often without scientific backing, claiming noticeable improvements in their vehicles’ fuel economy after adding "minyak kayu putih" to their tanks. This informal discourse rapidly created a groundswell of interest, prompting many to consider experimenting with the mixture themselves, despite the lack of official endorsement or long-term safety data. The timing of this trend coincides with a global push for sustainable energy solutions and the exploration of alternative additives to traditional fossil fuels, further fueling public curiosity and hope for a simple, accessible solution.

Unpacking the Science: Eucalyptus Oil as a Bio-Additive

At a fundamental chemical level, eucalyptus oil is categorized as an essential oil, with its primary active component being 1,8-cineole, also known as eucalyptol. This organic compound is notable for its oxygen content, a characteristic that has piqued the interest of researchers. The hypothesis underpinning its potential as a fuel additive posits that the oxygen within 1,8-cineole could facilitate a more complete combustion process when mixed with air and fuel inside an engine’s cylinders. A more complete combustion typically translates to greater energy extraction from the fuel, which theoretically could lead to improved fuel efficiency and reduced exhaust emissions. This scientific premise provides a plausible, albeit theoretical, basis for the claims circulating on social media, distinguishing them from mere conjecture and prompting a deeper academic inquiry into the matter.

Academic Investigations and Promising Laboratory Results

The public’s fascination with eucalyptus oil as a fuel enhancer spurred several academic institutions to conduct controlled laboratory studies, aiming to scientifically evaluate these claims. Among the most frequently cited research are those originating from reputable Indonesian universities, including the Journal of Transmission at Universitas Merdeka (UNMER) Malang, the Journal of Mechanical Engineering Education (JPTM) at Universitas Negeri Surabaya (UNESA), and independent research published by Utomo and Arsana in 2020, as well as by Winoko and Nugroho in 2021 in the Journal of Transmission. These studies typically involved testing various concentrations of eucalyptus oil mixed with standard gasoline in different engine types under controlled conditions.

One particularly notable study, focusing on a Honda CS1 150 PGM-FI motorcycle, reported compelling results. This research indicated that a mixture containing approximately 8 percent eucalyptus oil led to a significant reduction in fuel consumption, reportedly as much as 35.78 percent. Beyond fuel economy, the study also observed an increase in engine performance, with torque improving by approximately 2.22 percent and power by 2.53 percent. Furthermore, the emissions profile showed a positive trend, with a reported decrease in harmful carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions, suggesting environmental benefits alongside performance enhancements.

Another investigation, conducted on a Honda Supra X 125R, explored the effects of adding roughly 4 milliliters of eucalyptus oil per liter of gasoline. This study revealed a tendency towards both enhanced engine performance and a reduction in fuel consumption, reinforcing the potential benefits observed in other research. Similarly, the study by Winoko and Nugroho (2021), published in the Journal of Transmission, found an increase in engine power for a 150 cc motorcycle when using a mixture containing around 6 percent eucalyptus oil. This specific research also highlighted a crucial aspect: the existence of an optimum composition. It demonstrated that higher concentrations, such as 9 percent, did not yield superior results and, in some cases, could even be detrimental, underscoring the importance of precise formulation if such additives were ever to be commercialized.

Collectively, these academic findings from various universities paint a picture of eucalyptus oil as a promising candidate for a bio-additive, at least under controlled laboratory conditions. The reported improvements across multiple performance metrics—fuel economy, power, torque, and emissions—have certainly fueled optimism and validated the initial curiosity surrounding the social media claims.

Expert Warnings: A Call for Caution and Long-Term Perspective

Despite the encouraging laboratory results, experts in energy conversion and mechanical engineering have issued significant warnings, emphasizing that these findings are preliminary and do not yet justify widespread adoption by consumers. Professor Tri Yuswidjajanto Zaenuri, an expert in Energy Conversion from the Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), acknowledged that eucalyptus oil has indeed been associated with potential engine performance improvements for some time. However, he raised a critical concern regarding the oil’s characteristics: its potential to reduce the lubricity of the fuel when used continuously.

Fuel lubricity is vital for the proper functioning and longevity of various engine components, particularly those in the fuel system like fuel pumps and injectors, which rely on the fuel itself for lubrication. A reduction in lubricity can lead to increased wear and tear, potentially causing premature failure of these expensive and critical parts. Professor Zaenuri underscored that, to date, there is no long-term research available that definitively proves the safety of eucalyptus oil mixtures for vehicle fuel systems and engines after extended periods of use. He also posited that any perceived fuel savings by users might be relatively minor and could even be influenced by user perception rather than substantial, measurable efficiency gains in real-world driving conditions.

Muhamad Fuad, a researcher from the Oil and Gas Testing Center (LEMIGAS), echoed similar sentiments. He affirmed that eucalyptus oil possesses intriguing characteristics as a potential bio-additive, primarily due to its calorific value and oxygen content. However, he stressed that its commercial utilization as an additive would necessitate extensive further research. This includes rigorous studies on its stability within fuel mixtures, its compatibility with diverse fuel system components, and its long-term impact on engine durability. The complexities of modern engine designs and fuel systems mean that even seemingly minor alterations to fuel composition can have unforeseen and potentially damaging consequences.

Regulatory Stance and Industry Standards: The Risks of Unauthorized Additives

The consensus among relevant sources, including regulatory bodies and fuel industry experts, is clear: the addition of any unauthorized additive, including eucalyptus oil, to petroleum fuels (BBM) is not recommended. This stern advisory stems from the fact that such practices can fundamentally alter the specified characteristics and chemical composition of the fuel. Fuels are meticulously formulated to meet stringent specifications set by manufacturers and regulatory authorities, ensuring optimal engine performance, longevity, and compliance with environmental standards.

When fuel is modified with unapproved substances, its quality and characteristics deviate from the original manufacturer’s specifications. This deviation can have several adverse consequences. Firstly, it may void vehicle warranties, leaving consumers financially exposed to repair costs if engine damage is attributed to the use of non-standard fuel. Secondly, unauthorized additives can interact unpredictably with existing fuel system materials, leading to corrosion, clogging, or degradation of components like fuel lines, seals, and injectors. Such damage can be costly to repair and compromise vehicle safety. Thirdly, while some additives might show promise in isolated laboratory tests, their interaction with the complex cocktail of existing fuel additives (e.g., detergents, corrosion inhibitors, octane enhancers) can be detrimental, potentially neutralizing beneficial properties or creating new harmful compounds.

Fuel manufacturers invest heavily in research and development to formulate fuels that are not only efficient but also safe and compatible with the vast array of vehicles on the road. Any deviation from these carefully crafted specifications introduces an element of risk that neither manufacturers nor regulatory bodies are prepared to endorse without comprehensive, long-term testing and official approval processes.

Broader Context: The Global Search for Fuel Efficiency and Sustainable Solutions

The widespread interest in eucalyptus oil as a fuel additive must be understood within the broader global context of an incessant quest for fuel efficiency and sustainable energy solutions. Rising global fuel prices, driven by geopolitical factors, supply chain disruptions, and increasing demand, exert significant economic pressure on consumers and industries worldwide. Concurrently, growing concerns over climate change and air pollution have intensified the drive towards cleaner burning fuels and more efficient engine technologies.

Governments and research institutions globally are actively investing in the development of advanced biofuels, fuel additives, and alternative propulsion systems (such as electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cells) to address these multifaceted challenges. Bio-additives derived from renewable sources, like eucalyptus oil, represent an appealing pathway because they offer a potentially sustainable alternative to synthetic chemical additives, aligning with broader environmental goals. The enthusiasm for solutions like eucalyptus oil reflects a societal yearning for accessible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendlier ways to power transportation. However, the path from promising laboratory discovery to safe, commercially viable product is long and arduous, requiring extensive validation beyond initial findings.

Implications for Consumers and the Future Outlook

Based on the current body of evidence and expert opinions, it cannot be definitively concluded that mixing eucalyptus oil into gasoline will consistently result in more economical fuel consumption for everyday vehicle use. While several academic studies have indeed demonstrated the potential for increased combustion efficiency under specific, controlled laboratory conditions, these findings are presently limited in scope and are not yet supported by comprehensive long-term usage tests in real-world scenarios.

For consumers, the primary implication is one of caution. The temptation to save money on fuel is strong, but the potential risks associated with using unauthorized additives, such as engine damage, voided warranties, and unpredictable performance, far outweigh the unproven and potentially negligible benefits. Until such time as rigorous, long-term research unequivocally establishes the safety, efficacy, and compatibility of eucalyptus oil as a fuel additive across various engine types and driving conditions, and receives official endorsement from regulatory bodies and vehicle manufacturers, its use remains ill-advised.

The future outlook for eucalyptus oil as a fuel additive will depend heavily on further scientific inquiry. Researchers will need to delve deeper into its long-term stability in fuel tanks, its interactions with various engine components over extended periods, and its overall environmental impact beyond initial emissions reductions. Should these studies yield consistently positive and safe results, and overcome the current concerns regarding lubricity and component compatibility, eucalyptus oil could potentially emerge as a viable bio-additive. However, for the immediate future, consumers are best advised to adhere to manufacturer recommendations and use only officially approved fuels and additives to ensure the longevity and safe operation of their vehicles.

July 19, 2026 0 comment