Indonesia Explores Technology Collaboration with Norwegian Company to Boost Blue Economy Initiatives
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, is actively pursuing collaboration with Norwegian spacecraft communication services provider, Kongsberg Satellite Service (KSAT), to enhance the implementation of blue economy programs.
The focus lies on leveraging KSAT’s expertise in earth observation satellite technology, hardware and software development for maritime surveillance, and ship detection to monitor and combat illegal activities at sea.
Minister Trenggono highlighted the diverse applications of KSAT’s satellite technology across various maritime and fisheries sub-sectors. Beyond detecting illicit activities, the technology could contribute to environmental surveillance, offering early warnings on marine pollution threats and monitoring phenomena such as algae bloom and aquaculture. The collaboration aims to synergize KSAT’s capabilities with the existing technology infrastructure of the Ministry.
Harald Aaro, Executive Vice President for Space & Surveillance at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, welcomed Minister Trenggono and shared that KSAT has already provided services to 21 countries in the maritime and fisheries sector. These services encompass the construction of nanosatellites, earth stations for satellite command and control, supervision of fishing vessel operations, and addressing environmental issues like oil spills.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries has launched five comprehensive blue economy programs. These initiatives include expanding marine conservation areas, implementing a measured fishing policy, fostering sustainable aquaculture development, monitoring coastal and small island usage, and addressing marine plastic waste with the active involvement of fishers. These programs are designed to ensure ecological sustainability, drive economic growth in communities, and boost state income. The collaboration with KSAT is seen as a strategic move to enhance the technological capabilities supporting these crucial initiatives.
