Human Initiative and Pertamina Collaboration Promotes Independence for Catfish Farmers in West Aceh

Ujong Tanjung Village in Meureubo Subdistrict, West Aceh, has strong fisheries potential. Local fishermen produce abundant catches, including low value fish that are often not absorbed by the market. At the same time, water hyacinth grows widely in surrounding waters and disrupts water flow. These conditions highlight the need for solutions that are relevant and based on local resources.

Since 2025, Human Initiative, together with Pertamina Patra Niaga Fuel Terminal Meulaboh, has implemented the Independent Feed Movement and Catfish Farming Program. The initiative strengthens the Kumis Jaya Catfish Farmers Group, which consists of young people from the village. Previously, the group faced challenges due to the high cost of commercial fish feed, which significantly increased production expenses.

Human Initiative facilitated training on producing independent fish feed using low value fish and water hyacinth. The team also provided entrepreneurship training and business mentoring to help the group manage production, finances, and marketing in a more structured manner. After coordination with the West Aceh Marine and Fisheries Office and field assessments, the program was implemented with support from Pertamina Patra Niaga Fuel Terminal Meulaboh as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.

The group now produces its own feed, conducts seed stocking, and manages the cultivation cycle in a more organized way. These efforts reduce operational costs, increase profit margins, and utilize materials that were previously considered waste. The initiative also supports green economic practices by reducing waste and managing aquatic weeds.

As part of strengthening the enterprise, the group stocked 10,000 catfish fingerlings to increase production capacity. The cultivation cycle proceeded as planned, culminating in a collective harvest event attended by stakeholders, including a representative of the West Aceh Regent. The event reflected shared support for developing businesses based on local potential.

Collaboration expands impact. Coordinated partnerships help communities move more effectively while ensuring the sustainability of local enterprises. Human Initiative plays a role in connecting stakeholders and strengthening community capacity so that local initiatives can grow consistently.

Human Initiative invites individuals and companies to participate in similar empowerment initiatives. Visit solusipeduli.org and become part of expanding the impact of good together with Human Initiative.