Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, PT Timah strives to improve the economic well-being of fishing communities by providing fishing gear, infrastructure, and social security protection for fishermen in its operational areas.
One of PT Timah’s empowerment programs includes providing aquaculture training for fishing groups in Pulau Kundur.
Amran, Chairman of Pokdakan Tuah Bersatu, expressed his gratitude to PT Timah for facilitating their group’s participation in a white snapper aquaculture training program.
"This training has motivated our group to develop aquaculture further. Thanks to PT Timah, our group has gained more recognition, and even investors from Malaysia are now interested in investing with us. This is a great blessing for our members, and it would not have been possible without PT Timah’s guidance," said Amran.
According to Amran, this is a follow-up to a previous training session. In 2023, PT Timah had also facilitated their participation in a white snapper aquaculture program.
To support the fishermen’s operations and improve their catch, PT Timah has also provided fishing equipment such as nets and outboard engines.
At the beginning of 2025, PT Timah distributed 10 outboard engines to fishermen in Tanah Merah Village, Central Bangka Regency. Previously, the company also provided shrimp nets to fishermen in Pulau Kundur.
Gasfar, a fisherman from Tanah Merah Hamlet, expressed his appreciation for PT Timah’s support in providing outboard engines.
"Ten units have been distributed so far, and we hope for more in the future. These engines are very helpful, allowing us to venture further out to sea rather than staying near the shore," he said.
Similarly, Ambran, Chairman of Batu Tuan II Group in Sawang Laut Village, stated that the shrimp net assistance was crucial, as many of their nets were already damaged, affecting their catch.
"Our livelihood depends on shrimp fishing, so this support is highly beneficial. Many of our nets were already worn out, and purchasing new ones is quite expensive. Although PT Timah couldn’t provide for all of us, this assistance still makes a big difference," he said.
He hopes that with the new nets, their catch will improve, ultimately boosting the economic condition of the fishing community. The fishermen are also involved in environmental management programs, such as mangrove planting.
PT Timah also supports the improvement of fishing infrastructure, including Building a bridge at the Tanjung Kubu coast in South Bangka Regency, Dredging a boat docking area for the United Fishermen Group in Matras, Bangka Regency, Providing facilities for BUM Penganak Beach in West Bangka Regency, Dredging sediment deposits at Bom Sampur Beach in Central Bangka Regency
Another significant initiative is PT Timah’s social protection program for fishermen through the BPJS Employment Insurance. Between 2022 and 2023, PT Timah facilitated social protection coverage for 959 fishermen.
Suherman, a fisherman from East Belitung, expressed his gratitude for the BPJS Employment Insurance assistance provided by PT Timah.
"We truly appreciate PT Timah’s concern for fishermen. This insurance gives us and our families peace of mind," he said.
He emphasized the high risks associated with being a fisherman, as 80% of their work takes place at sea, where weather conditions are unpredictable.
"Being a fisherman is extremely risky. The chance of accidents is around 80% because we constantly face waves, strong winds, and unpredictable weather at sea," he explained.
As a member of the MIND ID Mining Industry Holding, PT Timah also involves fishermen in its environmental management programs, such as the deployment of artificial reefs and coral gardens.
Additionally, PT Timah frequently provides social assistance to fishermen, including support for those affected by maritime accidents and distribution of necessities to fishing communities.
Through these various initiatives, PT Timah remains committed to empowering fishermen, fostering self-sufficiency, and enhancing their welfare. (*)
