PANGKALPINANG -- PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk not only focuses on business growth but is also committed to growing and developing alongside communities in its operational areas, including fishermen.
Through various empowerment programs, PT TIMAH continues to strengthen its support to improve the welfare and independence of fishermen.
A range of initiatives has been implemented as a form of care for coastal communities, including providing fishing gear to increase productivity, facilitating social security through BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to ensure protection while working, and supporting the development of infrastructure that aids fishing activities.
These programs are not only aimed at increasing catch yields but also at creating a sense of safety and comfort for fishermen in carrying out their profession.
In addition, PT TIMAH also supports infrastructure for fishermen, such as boat mooring facilities, dredging of estuary channels, and other supporting facilities.
In 2025, PT TIMAH distributed assistance to dozens of fishermen groups across the Bangka Belitung Islands Province, Riau Province, and the Riau Islands Province.
This program continues in 2026, with PT TIMAH once again providing fishing gear assistance to fishermen groups, such as the Sungai Ulim Fishermen Group in Pulau Besar Village, South Bangka Regency.
PT TIMAH has also facilitated thousands of fishermen in obtaining BPJS Ketenagakerjaan social security coverage as part of its efforts to provide social protection.
Beyond direct assistance, PT TIMAH also empowers fishermen through coastal environmental programs, including mangrove planting, mangrove crab restocking in Kundur, squid restocking in the waters of Bangka Island, as well as fishing ground and coral garden programs, the benefits of which are now being felt by fishermen.
One of the groups receiving assistance from PT TIMAH is the Ratu Laut Teluk Dalam Joint Business Group (KUB) in Kundur Village. The group’s secretary, Dedi, stated that they received fishing gear assistance in the form of shrimp nets.
“This assistance will be used to purchase fishing equipment, specifically shrimp nets, since most fishermen here use them. We hope the catch will increase because the nets are new. With new nets, the results will certainly be more optimal,” Dedi said.
He explained that many members previously had damaged and unusable nets, but financial limitations made it difficult to replace them.
“Often, the catch is not enough to buy new nets because fishing equipment is more expensive than the income from the catch, while fishermen’s earnings are used for daily needs,” he added.
Similarly, Harman, Head of the Penganak Air Gantang Fishermen Group in West Bangka Regency, said their group received assistance in the form of an outboard motor, trap wires, and ropes. According to him, the assistance from PT TIMAH is highly relevant to the needs of fishermen in the coastal area of Air Gantang, especially Penganak Hamlet, which is located directly by the sea.
“Fishermen here need equipment for setting traps and building fish aggregating devices. The outboard motor is also very helpful, especially for fishermen who previously could only operate near the shore due to limited engine capacity,” said Harman.
He added that in the Penganak area, mining activities and fishing can coexist.
“If managed properly, mining and fishing activities at sea can go hand in hand. These are two sources of income for the community that can run together, as long as there is mutual understanding,” he said.
PT TIMAH has also supported improvements to road access leading to fishing areas in Penyusuk, Ramadan Indah Subdistrict, Belinyu District, Bangka Regency.
This road serves as the main route for daily activities, especially for fishermen transporting their catch. Previously damaged and difficult to pass, the road has now been repaired and is more accessible.
This access is vital for fishermen as it connects to boat mooring areas and is also used by the wider community.
Siswantoro, Head of Penyusuk Hamlet, said the road repaired by PT TIMAH is essential for fishermen heading to docking areas and transporting their catch.
“The road was previously in severely damaged condition, especially during the rainy season when it often posed risks to those passing through. Yet, this access is crucial for fishermen as it leads to the coastal area and boat mooring locations,” he said.
He expressed appreciation for PT TIMAH’s support in improving the road through mutual cooperation, noting that the improved access will help drive the local economy. (*)
