# Indonesia’s Fishing Vessel Modernization Program: Career Opportunities and Requirements
Stepping into a transformative era, the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has officially launched an ambitious Fishery Vessel Modernization Program. This strategic initiative aims to dramatically elevate local fisher productivity while fortifying the nation's capture fisheries sector on a global scale.
Between 2026 and 2028, a staggering 1,582 state-of-the-art fishing vessels will be constructed in phases. This robust fleet expansion is designed to meet modern maritime demands and drive sustainable economic growth across coastal communities.
## Overview of the Modern Fishing Fleet
The modernization project features a diverse range of vessel classes tailored to specific regional fishing grounds and the practical needs of local fishers. The construction breakdown includes:
* 1,000 Units: 30 GT vessels
* 557 Units: 200 GT vessels
* 25 Units: 500 GT vessels
To maximize efficiency, these ships will be outfitted with advanced gear, including Pelagic Purse Seines, Gill Nets, Handlines, Bottom Longlines, Tuna Pole Lines, and specialized transport vessels. Beyond upgrading the national fleet, this massive undertaking serves as a powerful catalyst for job creation and enhanced welfare for coastal populations.
## Massive Employment Opportunities for Fishery Crew Members
Operating a modern fleet of this magnitude requires a massive, skilled workforce. The program is set to absorb 20,094 Fishery Crew Members (Awak Kapal Perikanan - AKP), bridging the gap between advanced technology and maritime human resources.
The recruitment distribution is divided into two primary categories:
* 8,676 Officers: Comprising Captains, Chief Engineers, Fishing Masters, Mates, and Assistant Engineers.
* 11,418 Crew Members: Comprising Refrigeration Operators, Radio Operators, Oilers, Bosuns (Head Deckhands), and Deckhands.
## General Requirements for Applicants
Candidates aiming to join this prestigious national maritime program must meet a comprehensive set of foundational standards:
* Nationality: Must be an Indonesian Citizen (WNI).
* Education: Minimum completion of Elementary School (SD) or equivalent, with the ability to read and write in Indonesian.
* Health Standards: Physically fit (no physical disabilities) and mentally sound. Must not suffer from strabismus (crossed eyes) or color blindness, verified by an official health certificate from a licensed medical facility.
* Character: Must possess a clean record, proven by a valid Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK).
* Drug-Free Status: Strictly free from narcotics, psychotropics, and other addictive substances, supported by an official Narcotics-Free (NAPZA) certificate from an authorized institution.
* Employment Documentation: Must hold an Employment Seeker Card (AK-1) issued by the local Manpower Office.
* Commitment:
* Willing to undergo all stages of the selection process.
* Willing to be deployed to fishing vessels across any region of Indonesia upon passing.
* Willing to sign a binding statement agreeing to work on modern fishing vessels for a minimum of one year.
* Possess a valid Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) Level II maritime safety certificate.
## Specific Requirements by Position
Depending on the targeted role, applicants must also fulfill specialized criteria and hold the necessary certifications:
1. Captain (Nakhkoda)
* Minimum of 3 years of proven experience as a Captain, backed by valid supporting documents.
* Holds at least a valid SKN Deck Officer certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
2. Chief Engineer (Kepala Kamar Mesin / KKM)
* Minimum of 3 years of proven experience as a Chief Engineer, backed by valid supporting documents.
* Holds at least a valid SKN Marine Engineering certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
3. Mate (Mualim)
* Holds at least a valid SKN Deck Officer certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
* Must fulfill one of the following experience criteria:
* Minimum of 24 months of sailing time, proven by valid documents; or
* Be a graduate or active cadet from a Marine and Fisheries (KP) or non-KP education unit holding at least an ANKAPIN Level II competency certificate.
4. Assistant Engineer (Masinis)
* Holds at least a valid SKN Marine Engineering certificate or a 60-Mile Certificate of Competency (SKK).
* Must fulfill one of the following experience criteria:
* Minimum of 24 months of sailing time, proven by valid documents; or
* Be a graduate or active cadet from a Marine and Fisheries (KP) or non-KP education unit holding at least an ATKAPIN Level II competency certificate.
5. Refrigeration Operator
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience as a Refrigeration Machine Operator, verified through valid documentation.
6. Oiler (Oilman)
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience as an Oiler, verified through valid documentation.
7. Bosun (Bosman / Head Deckhand)
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in the Head Deckhand position, verified through valid documentation.
8. Deckhand (Kelasi)
* Preference is given to applicants holding a valid Basic Safety Training for Fishing (BST-F) Level II certificate.
* Prior experience as a deckhand is strongly preferred.
## Administrative Document Checklist
To complete the registration process, applicants must prepare physical and digital copies of the following administrative files:
1. Photocopy of National Identity Card (KTP).
2. Photocopy of Family Card (KK).
3. Two recent 4x6 cm color photographs with a red background.
4. Photocopy of Diploma / Certificate of Graduation (STTB / SKL).
5. Photocopy of Fishery Crew Expertise or Skills Certificates.
6. Photocopy of Seamen’s Book (Buku Pelaut).
7. Photocopy of the Employment Seeker Card (optional).
8. Official Narcotics-Free (NAPZA) Certificate.
9. Valid Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK).
10. Work experience certificates (if applicable).