# Empowering Indonesia’s Maritime Future: The Fisheries Vessel Modernization Program
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has launched an ambitious strategic initiative to modernize the nation’s fishing fleet. This comprehensive program aims to significantly boost the productivity of local fishers while strengthening the capture fisheries sector on a national scale. By upgrading maritime technology and infrastructure, the government is setting a new benchmark for sustainable and efficient fishing practices across the archipelago.
## Program Scope and Vessel Specifications
Between 2026 and 2028, the government plans to construct 1,582 state-of-the-art fishing vessels. These vessels are categorized by their Gross Tonnage (GT) and are purpose-built to meet the diverse operational requirements of Indonesia's specific fishing zones:
* 1,000 vessels at 30 GT
* 557 vessels at 200 GT
* 25 vessels at 500 GT
These modern vessels will be outfitted with specialized fishing gear, including Pelagic Purse Seines, Gill Nets, Handlines, Bottom Longlines, Tuna Longlines, and specialized Pole Lines, alongside dedicated transport ships to ensure supply chain efficiency.
## Job Opportunities and Human Capital Development
This massive infrastructure project is expected to act as a significant catalyst for job creation, offering long-term career paths for maritime professionals. The program requires a total of 20,094 qualified Fishing Vessel Crew members (AKP), divided into two primary categories:
* Officers (8,676 positions): Includes Captains (Nakhoda), Chief Engineers, Fishing Masters, Mates, and Assistant Engineers.
* Deck and Technical Crew (11,418 positions): Includes Refrigeration Operators, Radio Operators, Oilmen, Deckhands, and Lead Deckhands.
## Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Prospective candidates must meet several baseline requirements to participate in the recruitment process:
* General Requirements:
* Must be an Indonesian citizen.
* Minimum education level of Elementary School (SD) or equivalent, with functional reading and writing skills in Indonesian.
* Physically and mentally fit, free from physical disabilities, color blindness, or strabismus, verified by a medical certificate from a licensed healthcare facility.
* Possession of a clean criminal record (SKCK).
* Drug-free, confirmed by an official NAPZA-free certificate.
* Possession of an active Job Seeker Card (AK-1).
* Willingness to sign a minimum one-year employment contract and be stationed anywhere within Indonesian waters.
* Possession of a valid Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) Level II certificate.
## Specific Professional Qualifications
Candidates aiming for specialized roles must demonstrate relevant experience and hold specific competencies:
Command and Engineering Roles
* Captains (Nakhoda): Minimum 3 years of experience; hold an active SKN Nautical certificate or 60-Mile Proficiency Certificate (SKK).
* Chief Engineers (KKM): Minimum 3 years of experience; hold an active SKN Technical certificate or 60-Mile SKK.
* Mates & Engineers: Require relevant SKN certificates and either 24 months of sea service or appropriate accreditation (ANKAPIN/ATKAPIN Level II).
Operational and Deck Roles
* Operators & Oilmen: Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience.
* Boatswain (Bosman): Minimum 2 years of experience as a lead deckhand.
* Deckhands (Kelasi): Prior experience and BST-F Level II certification are strongly preferred.
## Required Administrative Documents
To apply, candidates must prepare a complete dossier including:
1. Copy of National ID (KTP) and Family Card (KK).
2. Recent 4x6 color photographs with a red background.
3. Copies of educational diplomas or graduation certificates.
4. Professional competency and skills certificates.
5. Seaman’s Book (Buku Pelaut).
6. Job Seeker Card (AK-1).
7. Official medical certificates (NAPZA-free and general health).
8. Valid Police Clearance (SKCK).
9. Employment reference letters (if available).
This modernization initiative represents a landmark shift in the Indonesian maritime industry, providing a unique opportunity for skilled workers to contribute to the nation’s economic growth while building a sustainable future for the fishing communities across the country.