IPB University Professor Guides Bangka Belitung’s Development Planning with Blue Economy Approach
In support of sustainable development planning policies, the Graduate Program in Tropical Marine Economics at IPB University has made significant strides through collaboration with the Provincial Government of Bangka Belitung Islands (Babel) via the Regional Development Planning and Research Agency (Bappeda). The event was officially opened by the Head of Bappeda of the Bangka Belitung Province.
This collaboration was marked by the symbolic handover of the intellectual property rights for Remangok Mangrove Crab Sea Farming, a research and innovation project valued at IDR 1.4 billion, funded through the Kedaireka/Matching Fund scheme by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek). This reflects a strong commitment to the development of the archipelago’s economy based on the blue economy principles.
During the event, IPB University Professor, Prof Tridoyo Kusumastanto, delivered a presentation on the blue economy, focusing on exploring sustainable marine economic potential and its integration into regional development planning.
“The blue economy integrates land and sea development, taking into account the carrying capacity of resources and the environment. This approach employs a complete, integrated assessment that considers both inward and outward perspectives to achieve sustainable community welfare,” Prof Tridoyo explained.
The event, attended by 50 participants from various related agencies such as Bappeda, the Communication and Information Office, the Central Bureau of Statistics, and the Marine and Fisheries Office, highlighted the broad concern and support for this initiative.
The presence of these various institutions underscores the strong collaboration between the provincial government and academics in designing innovative solutions that can enhance community welfare while preserving the environment.
Among the activities carried out were the cultivation of mangrove crabs, along with crab processing training held in Pangkal Pinang City. Additionally, there was training on mangrove crab breeding at the Brackishwater Fish Farming Installation Unit in Guntung, Central Bangka.
The IPB University team included Dr Irzal Effendi, Dr Sugeng Hari Wisudo, Dr Wini Trilaksani, Dr Kastana Sapanli, and Dr Fery Kurniawan, along with Auzi Asfarian, SSi, MKom.
This collaboration is expected to help the Bangka Belitung Province advance in utilizing its marine economic potential while strengthening the foundation for sustainable and inclusive development.
Dr Kastana Sapanli, the program’s secretary, emphasized that the activities aim to optimize the mangrove crab supply chain, from seedling, capture, and cultivation to processing and marketing. “Ultimately, processed products will be easily accessible electronically both within and outside Bangka Belitung,” he added.
The program is anticipated to enhance participants’ understanding and skills in optimally utilizing mangrove crabs, thereby supporting the implementation of a sustainable smart mariculture system in the region. As a result, the mangrove crab potential in Bangka Belitung can be optimally managed, providing significant economic benefits to the community.
The Matching Fund Program will run until the end of 2024, with the IPB University team guiding the community in producing high-quality, marketable processed products. (*/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)
