Indonesia takes action after illegal fishing cost the republic $24 billion

The assertiveness of the Indonesian government reached its top leader after they accuse foreign fishermen for illegal fishing in its waters.

Under the leadership of Joko Widodo, the republic has taken aggressive efforts to curb the issue, even more so after it was estimated that the loss sustained was close to US$24 billion (RM84 billion).

What started with several statements from Jakarta was followed with several action plans by the authorities. The latest update at the Anambas Island, Riau opened the eyes of many.

Indonesia will examine the effectiveness of drowning foreign vessels captured for fishing illegally in the country’s waters after it sank three Vietnamese fishing boats on Friday.

"We will measure objectively whether the sinking of foreign vessels will increase our catch, increase exports, and increase the fishermen's welfare," President Joko Widodo wrote in his Facebook page today.

He added, the local navy will tighten security to ensure that the waters are free from illegal fishing.

Jokowi said that the sinking of foreign vessels has nothing to do about indicating power or a political show but it is about the principal of sovereignty.

On Friday, Indonesian navy sank three Vietnamese boats, which was first held for illegal fishing in the waters of Riau Island.

As reported by news portal Tempo, the ships were drowned one by one using explosives before two government vessels fired on them from a distance.

The fishermen were first transferred to a different vessel and observed the operation.

According to media reports, they will be sent back to Vietnam soon.

Indonesia has previously issued a more assertive stance towards rampant illegal fishing in its water which has caused up to billions of ringgits in losses.

Tempo, quoting a high-ranked navy officer, reported that this is not the first operation as similar action has been taken towards illegal fishermen from Thailand and the Philippines since 2003.

As compared to former president Susilo Bambang Yushoyono, Jokowi has shown a firmer stance in defending the economic interests of the republic.

Former Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister under Susilo’s cabinet, Freddy Numberi recently revealed how he decided to execute a similar operation against a boat from Vietnam but was rebuked by Susilo on the grounds of fostering a good diplomatic relationship.