BANGKA TENGAH -- To help fishermen transport their fish catches, PT Timah is backing the dredging of the fish transport channel at BOM Sampur Beach, Kebintik Village, Central Bangka Regency, on Tuesday (5/11/2024).
This initiative is one of the company's contributions through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program aimed at improving infrastructure to support the economy of the local fishing community in the company's operational area.
The assistance from PT Timah will be used for dredging and excavating sediment to widen the access for fishermen at BOM Sampur Beach.
With this new channel, fishermen will find it easier to transport their catch from their boats to the fish storage area. Additionally, the construction of this channel will help maintain the freshness of the catch by providing quicker access to market destinations.
Chairman of the Bagan and Coastal Fishermen Forum (FNBP), Ewandra, expressed his appreciation to PT Timah for helping build the new fish transport channel infrastructure.
Ewan, as he is often called, mentioned that the new channel would save time and energy for fishermen, who were previously hindered by long and laborious transport processes.
“The dredging of this channel helps us work more efficiently. We save energy and time, no more waiting in line like before. Our fish can also be sold faster in the market, stay fresher, and fetch a higher price,” he said.
“Hopefully, PT Timah continues to succeed and always collaborates with fishermen like us,” Ewan added.
The Bhabinkamtibmas officer of the Sampur area, Bripka Hapin, stated that the dredging assistance was highly beneficial to the fishermen.
“We are very grateful to PT Timah for its real contribution to the fishermen in Sampur. I hope the company will continue to collaborate and provide support to other fishermen in surrounding areas,” said Hapin.
PT Timah remains committed to supporting the fishermen's economy. The company’s efforts in empowering fishing communities include providing fishing equipment, ensuring social security for fishermen, and assisting in the improvement of fishing infrastructure.
With this infrastructure support, it is hoped that the sustainability of the fishing sector in the area can be maintained. Improved access will enhance the distribution capacity of the fish catch, smooth the marketing process, and promote the sustainable economic growth of the coastal communities. (*)
