# Transforming Indonesia's Fishing Sector Through the National Modernization Program
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has launched an ambitious Fishery Vessel Modernization Program designed to elevate national catch productivity and empower local fishermen. Scheduled for phased rollout between 2026 and 2028, this initiative involves constructing 1,582 cutting-edge fishing vessels tailored to various regional marine environments and operational demands.
## Breakdown of the Modern Fishing Fleet
To optimize maritime harvesting, the newly commissioned fleet features multiple vessel classes equipped with advanced gear such as Pelagic Purse Seines, Gill Nets, Handlines, Bottom Longlines, Tuna Pole Lines, and specialized transport ships. The fleet distribution includes:
* 1,000 units of 30 GT vessels
* 557 units of 200 GT vessels
* 25 units of 500 GT vessels
Beyond reinforcing the national maritime fleet, this modernization drive serves as a powerful catalyst for job creation and coastal economic prosperity.
## Massive Employment Opportunities for Fishery Crew Members
Operating a fleet of 1,582 modern vessels requires a massive workforce of 20,094 Fishery Crew Members (Awak Kapal Perikanan - AKP). The personnel requirement is divided into two primary categories:
* 8,676 Officers: Comprising Captains, Chief Engineers, Fishing Masters, Mates, and Assistant Engineers.
* 11,418 Crew Members: Comprising Refrigeration Machine Operators, Radio Operators, Oilers, Boswans (Head Deckhands), and Deckhands.
## General Requirements for Applicants
Candidates aspiring to join Indonesia's modern fishing fleet must fulfill several baseline administrative and health criteria:
* Citizenship & Literacy: Must be an Indonesian Citizen (WNI) with a minimum education level of Elementary School (SD) or equivalent, possessing basic Indonesian literacy skills.
* Physical & Mental Health: Must pass a medical examination proving good physical and mental health—free from physical disabilities, strabismus (cross-eyes), and color blindness—certified by a licensed healthcare facility.
* Clean Record: Must present a valid Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK) demonstrating good conduct.
* Drug-Free Status: Must provide an official Narcotics, Psychotropic, and Addictive Substances (NAPZA) free certificate issued by an authorized institution.
* Employment Card: Must hold a Job Seeker Card (AK-1) from the local Manpower Office (optional).
* Commitment to Placement: Must agree to complete all selection stages, accept deployment across any Indonesian territorial waters, and sign a mandatory one-year employment agreement for modern fishing vessels.
* Safety Certification: Must possess a valid Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) Level II certificate.
## Specific Role Requirements and Qualifications
Depending on the desired position, applicants must meet targeted professional backgrounds and competency standards:
1. Captain (Nakhkoda)
* Minimum of 3 years of proven experience as a Captain, supported by legitimate documentation.
* Must hold at least a valid SKN Nautical competency certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
2. Chief Engineer (Kepala Kamar Mesin - KKM)
* Minimum of 3 years of proven experience as a Chief Engineer, supported by legitimate documentation.
* Must hold at least a valid SKN Technical competency certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
3. Mate (Mualim)
* Must hold a valid SKN Nautical competency certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
* Must meet one of the following experience criteria:
* Minimum of 24 months of sailing time supported by valid documentation; or
* Graduate status or active cadet standing from an official Marine and Fisheries (KP) or non-KP education unit holding at least an ANKAPIN Level II competency certificate.
4. Assistant Engineer (Masinis)
* Must hold a valid SKN Technical competency certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
* Must meet one of the following experience criteria:
* Minimum of 24 months of sailing time supported by valid documentation; or
* Graduate status or active cadet standing from an official Marine and Fisheries (KP) or non-KP education unit holding at least an ATKAPIN Level II competency certificate.
5. Refrigeration Operator
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience as a Refrigeration Machine Operator, backed by valid documentation.
6. Oiler (Oilman)
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience as an Oiler, backed by valid documentation.
7. Head Deckhand (Bosman)
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in the Head Deckhand position, backed by valid documentation.
8. Deckhand (Kelasi)
* Preference given to candidates holding a valid Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) Level II certificate.
* Prior experience as a deckhand is highly preferred.
## Required Administrative Documents
Applicants must prepare physical and digital copies of the following documents for verification during the recruitment process:
* Copy of Identity Card (KTP)
* Copy of Family Card (KK)
* Two recent 4x6 cm color photographs with a red background
* Copy of Diploma / Graduation Certificate (STTB / SKL)
* Copies of relevant Fishery Crew Competency or Skill Certificates
* Copy of Seaman’s Book (Buku Pelaut)
* Copy of Job Seeker Card from the relevant agency (optional)
* Official NAPZA-Free Certificate
* Valid Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK)
* Work experience reference letters (if applicable)