Commemorating National Fish Day: Regal Springs Indonesia and USSEC Promoted Food Security and Blue Food Transformation

This publication is authored by and reflects the views and opinions of Regal Springs Indonesia (PT Aqua Farm Nusantara). More information about Regal Springs Indonesia is available at www.regalsprings.co.id.

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Jakarta, November 28, 2024 – In commemoration of National Fish Day, observed on November 21, 2024, Regal Springs Indonesia (PT Aqua Farm Nusantara) and the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) hosted a discussion forum titled "Indonesia Tilapia Blue Food." With the theme "Tilapia: A Source of Protein for Food Security and Global Markets," the event raised awareness about the importance of fish as a high-quality protein source contributing to both national food security and global markets.

As a producer of premium tilapia committed to sustainability, Regal Springs Indonesia emphasized the importance of collaboration in building public understanding of tilapia's potential. Tilapia, being rich in protein, was highlighted as a nutritious food choice that supports the development of human resources in Indonesia.

The forum served as a platform for exchanging knowledge, exploring potential, and addressing challenges faced by the tilapia industry both nationally and globally. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event fostered synergies to strengthen tilapia’s role in the global food system.

Rudolf Hoeffelman, President Director of Regal Springs Indonesia, explained that the forum was a collective effort to enhance the nutritional quality of future generations by raising public awareness about the importance of nutritious food.

“Tilapia, with its high-quality protein and other essential nutrients, is not just food. It is the foundation for a healthier, stronger future and a critical resource for building Indonesia's Golden Generation in 2045,” said Rudolf.

He also noted that tilapia has become one of Indonesia’s top export commodities in the growing fisheries sector. “To meet demand and international market standards, we remain committed to ensuring that our tilapia products are farmed and produced in alignment with good aquaculture practices,” Rudolf explained.

At the forum, Erwin Dwiyana, S.Pi., M.Sc., Director of Marketing at the Directorate General of Product Competitiveness, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, emphasized tilapia's strategic importance.

“Tilapia is the second most farmed fish globally after carp. It is not only rich in omega-3 and other essential nutrients but also makes a significant contribution to meeting community nutritional needs and increasing national revenue,” said Erwin.

Similarly, Ir. Ujang Komarudin, M.Sc., Director of Freshwater Fish at the Directorate General of Aquaculture, highlighted that tilapia is one of Indonesia’s top five export commodities. “This presents a significant opportunity to support national food security while strengthening Indonesia’s position in global markets,” he said.

Prof. Dr. Ir. H. Rokhmin Dahuri, MS, Chairman of the Indonesian Aquaculture Society, shared his insights on tilapia's role in the global food system. “Indonesia is the world’s second-largest producer of tilapia after China. The tilapia industry has a substantial multiplier effect, from creating jobs to improving community welfare,” he explained.

The forum also featured stakeholders from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), IPB University, Universitas Sumatera Utara, and other industry representatives. The discussions encouraged collaboration among government, industry players, and academics to strengthen Indonesia’s fisheries sector.