Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia During Distribution of Working Capital Assistance (BMK) and Direct Cash Assistance (BLT) to Recipients at Olilit Market, Saumlaki, in Tanimbar Islands Regency, Maluku Province, September 2, 2022

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

Mapping of the areas has been done and calculated by Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, which is considering the groups, the ports, and all. So, if the potentials remain inadequate, it cannot be designated as a fisheries management area. However, we can see that the potentials here are mostly used for local needs. I think it is fine. They do not need to be exported as long as the people’s consumption can be better, because it is related to the local children’s nutrition. Do not export all the potentials. Not all areas can be designated as a fisheries management area.

Reporter

Who receive the social assistance today, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

We distribute the President’s Assistance to street sellers and market sellers. We hope with better business capital, they will make better income. So, that’s it.

Reporter

What about the Masela Block, Sir?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)

We continue to encourage the construction. Initially, Inpex and Shell were intended to join the project. However, oil price dwindled at that time and one company withdrew from the project. The construction had then been postponed. We continue to encourage to build a new partnership so Masela Block can be initiated immediately. The Tanimbar Islands, the Saumlaki town, will have a great advantage if Masela Block is carried out. It will improve regional money circulation, the gross regional domestic product in Tanimbar Islands regency and also Maluku province. So, we continue to encourage the initiation.

Reporter

Thank you, Sir. (AW/EP)