The Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) of Nunukan Regency is collaborating with academics and seaweed cultivation researchers from Borneo Tarakan University (UBT) to develop the potential of local seaweed.
"The management of seaweed cultivation is a key focus of the commission, driven by the increasing potential of seaweed production," said the Chairman of Commission II of the Nunukan DPRD, Andi Fajrul Syam, in Nunukan on Saturday.
He stated that the DPRD, along with the Regional Government, aims to explore this potential through a more scientific and research-based approach.
The DPRD is working with academics and researchers in the field of seaweed cultivation to obtain strong data and research, ensuring the sustainable management of this resource.
According to data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), Nunukan Regency produces an average of 5,000 tons of seaweed per month. In 2022, Nunukan produced 587,459 tons of seaweed, with a total value reaching IDR 1.3 trillion.
Firman Latif, a member of Commission II of the Nunukan DPRD, also fully supports this program. He believes that proper seaweed cultivation management will have a positive impact on the local economy, particularly in coastal areas.
This program not only increases income but also strengthens local food security.
"Structured management based on data and seaweed cultivation research can turn this sector into a rapidly growing industry in Nunukan Regency," said Firman Latif.
The Secretary of Commission II of the Nunukan DPRD, Ramsah, added that policies are needed to support the processing of seaweed into high-value products.
With more diverse utilization, the potential of seaweed can not only increase farmers' income but also contribute to the development of the local industry.
He is optimistic that with proper management, seaweed cultivation in Nunukan can thrive and become a leading sector in the marine and fisheries industry.
Academician and Seaweed Cultivation Researcher from UBT, Nur Hikmah, explained that seaweed cultivation holds great potential.
The marine conditions in Nunukan, which support seaweed growth in terms of water quality and marine ecosystem diversity, make the area highly suitable for seaweed cultivation.
"Seaweed farming offers various benefits, from its high economic value to its ability to support the sustainability of marine ecosystems," she said.
Additionally, she noted that seaweed is a highly sought-after commodity in the international market, especially as a raw material for the food and cosmetics industries.
Nur Hikmah added that the development of seaweed cultivation in Nunukan Regency has the potential to create business opportunities and improve community welfare through the fisheries sector.
With the right technology and farming systems, as well as the enhancement of local human resource capacity, the potential for seaweed cultivation in Nunukan Regency can be optimized.
Nur Hikmah emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Regional Government, academics, the community, and the media to achieve effective and beneficial seaweed cultivation management for all stakeholders.