The fisheries sector in East Kalimantan is currently experiencing a positive trend along with the optimization of direct flight routes from Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman (SAMS) Sepinggan International Airport in Balikpapan. This logistics scheme has become the key for exporters to ship premium commodities, particularly black tiger shrimp, directly to China and Malaysia.
Head of the East Kalimantan Marine Affairs and Fisheries Service (DKP), Irhan Hukmaidy, revealed that this air route efficiency can accommodate export volumes of up to 56 tons per month. The economic value generated from these commodity shipments is estimated to reach IDR 173 billion, providing a significant impact on local economic growth and the welfare of local fisheries entrepreneurs.
The cargo flights, scheduled twice a week, are considered highly strategic. In addition to substantially cutting operational logistics costs, this route ensures the freshness of the shrimp is maintained until they reach consumers abroad. Quality assurance and food safety are priorities, with only companies holding international standard certifications allowed to export.
The East Kalimantan Provincial Government is committed to continuing to supervise the quality standards of fishery products to maintain global market trust. Through this ease of access, the local government is optimistic that fishery sector production will continue to increase, while also opening opportunities for other local commodities to enter the international market more broadly.
