BANGKA SELATAN -- PT TIMAH Tbk continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving the welfare of coastal communities by providing fishing equipment assistance to fishermen groups.
This time, PT TIMAH delivered assistance to the Sungai Ulim Fishermen Group in Batu Betumpang Village, Pulau Besar District, South Bangka Regency.
The assistance, in the form of fish storage fiberglass containers, is expected to support fishermen’s activities at sea, particularly in maintaining the quality and freshness of their catch. This is especially important as many members of the Sungai Ulim Fishermen Group spend nights at sea.
The Head of the Sungai Ulim Fishermen Group, Mudiman, stated that the group consists of 11 fishermen from Batu Betumpang Village and Sidoharjo Village.
He explained that the fishermen had previously been using equipment that was no longer in proper condition, causing their catch not to last long.
“On average, we go out to sea for two to three days, depending on conditions. However, the fiberglass containers we previously had were badly damaged—cracked and leaking—so the fish could not last long,” he said.
He added that with the damaged containers, the fish could only last for about one to two nights, which affected both quality and market value.
“If the containers are damaged, the ice cannot last, and the fish spoil quickly. But with these new fiberglass containers, the fish can stay fresh for up to two to three nights. This really helps us,” he added.
According to him, the price of fiberglass containers in their area is quite expensive, making this assistance very helpful in easing the fishermen’s burden.
Mudiman also shared that this was the first time his group had received assistance from PT TIMAH, and he did not expect their proposal to be approved.
“We didn’t expect to receive this support. At the time, we just tried to submit a request, especially during the fasting month when we really needed to maintain fish stock. Thankfully, it was realized,” he said.
He expressed appreciation for PT TIMAH’s concern for fishermen, especially those in the Pulau Besar area.
“This shows that PT TIMAH truly cares about fishermen. We hope the company continues to succeed and to keep supporting communities, especially coastal communities,” he said.
Through this assistance, it is hoped that fishermen can improve the quality of their catch, extend the shelf life of their fish, and ultimately increase their income and overall welfare.
