West Sulawesi is one of the provinces in Sulawesi that has significant marine and fisheries resources. With a marine area of 19,800 km² and a coastline of 663.02 km, the province has 69 islands scattered along its coast.

Marine Fisheries Potential

Data from the West Sulawesi Marine and Fisheries Office shows that fishermen in the province's waters catch large pelagic fish such as tuna, specifically bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares). In addition, the province also has significant inland fisheries potential, including tilapia farming and vannamei shrimp farming.

"Jurassic Park" in Mamuju Waters

The waters of Mamuju have been nicknamed "Jurassic Park" due to their extraordinary marine biodiversity. The Head of the West Sulawesi Marine and Fisheries Office, Dr. Krg Bau Suyuti Marzuki, revealed that the waters have various fish species, including grouper, sea cucumber, and other fish. The Balabalakang Islands, located in the province, offer stunning underwater beauty and have become a popular tourist destination.

Development of Marine and Fisheries Resources

The West Sulawesi provincial government has planned the development of marine and fisheries resources in the region. In the 2045 Regional Long-Term Development Plan, the provincial government encourages investment in the construction of ports, logistics centers, and fish processing industries in the Balabalakang Islands.

Tilapia for National Food Security

The West Sulawesi Marine and Fisheries Office has also developed a tilapia farming program to increase tilapia production in the province. In 2024, the office distributed over 1 million tilapia fry to the community. For 2025, the office plans to distribute 10 million tilapia fry to the community and release them into rivers and reservoirs as long as 5 years next.

With its significant marine and fisheries resources, West Sulawesi has great potential to become one of the leading provinces in the field of fisheries and marine affairs.