# Driving National Fisheries Growth Through the Modern Fishing Vessel Program
Navigating toward a more prosperous and productive maritime future, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has introduced a visionary initiative known as the Fishing Vessel Modernization Program. This strategic undertaking aims to elevate fishermen's productivity while fundamentally strengthening the national capture fisheries sector. Between 2026 and 2028, a total of 1,582 modern fishing vessels will be constructed in structured phases. This robust fleet comprises 1,000 vessels measuring 30 GT, 557 vessels at 200 GT, and 25 large-scale vessels reaching 500 GT. Equipped with advanced gear such as Pelagic Purse Seines, Gill Nets, Handlines, Bottom Longlines, Tuna Pole Lines, and specialized transport vessels tailored to regional waters and local fishing communities, this program represents a monumental leap forward for the industry.
## Expanding Employment and Elevating Coastal Welfare
Beyond upgrading the national fleet, this modernization blueprint serves as a powerful catalyst for job creation and the enhancement of coastal livelihoods. Operating 1,582 state-of-the-art vessels demands a massive workforce of 20,100 Fishing Vessel Crew members. This dynamic employment opportunity breaks down into two core categories:
* Officers (8,676 positions): Includes Captains, Chief Engineers, Fishing Masters, Mates, and Assistant Engineers.
* General Crew (11,418 positions): Includes Refrigeration Operators, Radio Operators, Oilers, Bosuns, and Deckhands.
## General Recruitment Requirements for Candidates
To ensure the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational excellence, applicants must meet a comprehensive set of general prerequisites before joining the modernized fleet.
* Must be an Indonesian Citizen.
* Possess a minimum educational background of Elementary School (SD) or equivalent, with the ability to read and write in Indonesian.
* Demonstrate sound physical health (free from physical disabilities) and mental stability, verified by official medical certificates from licensed healthcare facilities confirming no color blindness or strabismus.
* Provide a valid Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK) demonstrating good conduct.
* Submit an official drug-free certificate (NAPZA) proving no history of narcotics or psychoactive substance abuse.
* Hold a valid Job Seeker Card (AK-1) issued by the local Manpower Office.
* Commit to completing all selection stages and accepting deployment anywhere across Indonesian territorial waters upon passing.
* Sign a formal statement agreeing to work aboard modern fishing vessels for a minimum duration of one year.
* Hold a valid Level II Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) maritime safety certificate.
## Specific Role Qualifications and Competencies
Candidates aiming for specialized officer and operational roles must fulfill targeted criteria regarding experience and official certifications.
1. Captains (Nakhkoda)
* At least three years of documented, legitimate experience serving as a Captain.
* Hold a valid nautical competency certificate, minimum SKN Nautical or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
2. Chief Engineers (KKM)
* At least three years of verified practical experience operating as a Chief Engineer.
* Hold a valid technical competency certificate, minimum SKN Technical or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
3. Mates (Mualim)
* Hold a valid SKN Nautical or 60-Mile SKK certificate.
* Demonstrate either a minimum of 24 months of verified sea-time experience or active enrollment/graduation from recognized maritime education institutions holding at least an ANKAPIN Level II competency certificate.
4. Engineers (Masinis)
* Hold a valid SKN Technical or 60-Mile SKK certificate.
* Demonstrate either a minimum of 24 months of verified sea-time experience or graduation/active status in technical maritime programs holding at least an ATKAPIN Level II competency certificate.
5. Specialized Operators and Crew
* Refrigeration Operators and Oilers: Require a minimum of two years of relevant, documented working experience in the respective position.
* Bosuns (Kepala Deckhand): Require at least two years of proven experience leading deck operations.
* Deckhands (Kelasi): Preference is given to applicants holding valid Level II BST-F certificates and prior sailing experience.
## Mandatory Administrative Documentation
Applicants must compile and submit a complete file of administrative documents to validate their candidacy.
* Photocopy of the National Identity Card (KTP) and Family Card (KK).
* Two recent 4x6 cm color photographs with a red background.
* Photocopy of the official Diploma, Graduation Certificate, or School Completion Letter.
* Photocopies of relevant fishing vessel competency and skill certificates.
* Photocopy of the Seaman’s Book (Buku Pelaut).
* Photocopy of the local Job Seeker Card (optional).
* Official NAPZA drug-free clearance letter and valid Police Record Certificate (SKCK).
* Certificates of prior work experience (if applicable).