Known for its long-standing fishing industry and strategic access to the Java Sea,
Lamongan plays a crucial role in Indonesia’s maritime economy. The area is home to
thousands of fishermen whose livelihoods depend on daily activities in the sea; as of June
2024, Lamongan is home to more than 26,000 fishermen spanning over 17 coastal
villages in 2 districts. These high numbers made Lamongan rank third in the most number
of fishermen in East Java; nonetheless, Lamongan is still able to produce the most
numbers of fish in East Java. However in recent years, this coastal regency constantly
faces challenges such as coastal erosion and sedimentation especially in its waters which
have increasingly endangered the livelihoods of local fishermen: putting boats, families,
and most importantly Indonesia’s blue economy at risk.
On February 27, 2024, i-Sentra attempted to address this very problem through the
establishment of a break water system which targets to prevent abrasion, and provide a
safety net for fishermen’s boats moored during the peak monsoon season (December to
January), when waves surge dangerously. This break water reduces wave energy before
it reaches the shore, minimizes erosion of rocks along the coast and also prevents
sediment buildup that can clog fishing lanes and ports. In addition, i-Sentra also attempted
to dig out the sedimentation in its coasts. Overall, it ensures safer anchoring for boats
during storms and high tides. Most importantly, it also fosters better water circulation,
which helps preserve marine habitats and the fish populations that support Lamongan’s
blue economy.
This break water system supported by i-Sentra also offers Lamongan’s fishermen a
protected and sustainable future. In the past, fishermen in Lamongan were forced to limit
or halt their activities during monsoon seasons due to rough waves and unstable coastal
conditions. The new break water system now enables thousands of fishermen to return to
sea, revive their livelihoods, and once again provide fresh fish and stable income for their
families.
Through the break water system, i-Sentra is on its path in achieving Sustainable
Development Goals (SDG) 11, sustainable cities and communities.
