BANGKA BARAT – Fishermen who are members of the Tanjung Cinta Damai Fishermen group seemed enthusiastic about drowning as many as 50 FADs in the Tanjung Exodus waters, Muntok, West Bangka Regency, Wednesday (12/1/2022).
This FAD sinking activity is PT Timah Tbk's CSR which empowers Tanjung Cinta Damai fishermen to make, drown and treat FADs. Where in the sinking of FADs, fishing boats are also used.
The sunken FADs are cone-shaped and rectangular in which each corner has a hole which is topped with sago palm leaves or coconut leaves. The sinking of FADs which are fish houses is expected to increase the catch of fishermen.
The head of the Cinta Damai fishing group Tanjung Herman Achmad (63) said that his party was happy to be invited by PT Timah Tbk to collaborate to make fish FADs. "PT Timah Tbk invites collaboration to make fish FADs, the costs are borne by PT Timah, and fishermen groups make FADs, when the drowning is carried out together," he said.
He hopes that later with this FAD, it can increase fishermen's catches, so that they not only maintain environmental conditions but can also have an impact on the community's economy. "The 50 FADs of this fish are artificial corals that are submerged in the sea with the hope that later the fish can play, nest, lay eggs so as to help fish breed," he explained.
According to Herman, the existence of FADs can improve the fishermen's economy apart from marine products and also supports the tourism sector.
"God willing, if this rumpon rumon becomes a place to play fish, it will improve the fishermen's economy, and become an attraction for anglers, they can enjoy the beautiful beaches around, this can stimulate tourism," he said.
Meanwhile, the sub-district head of Muntok Sukandi appreciated the fish FAD sinking program, according to him this is a form of PT Timah's concern for fishermen and the natural environment. "This is a form of PT Timah's concern for fishermen and the natural environment, which we must welcome and support. Digging PT Timah FADs will provide benefits for fishermen, revive the economy and help increase fishermen's income," he said.
He also advised fishermen to maintain and care for fish FADs so that they can function optimally so that the benefits can be shared. (**)
