Fishermen in Cilacap Express Concerns on Limited Subsidized Diesel Availability to Gibran

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Vice President Gibran Rakabuming met with and listened to the concerns of fishermen at the Fish Auction Place (TPI) Tegalkatilayu in Cilacap Regency, Central Java, on Monday (26/10/2026).

During the dialogue, several fishermen voiced their direct concerns regarding the availability of subsidized diesel.

One resident, Agustin, praised the provision of specialized diesel for fishing vessels sized GT 31–200, which he believes supports smooth fishing activities.

“First of all, I would like to express my gratitude for the policy implemented by the President and Vice President regarding the specialized diesel supply for vessels of GT 31-200. This has never happened before, it’s truly extraordinary. So vessels of GT 31-200 can now operate smoothly,” Agustin stated, as quoted in an official statement.

Meanwhile, another fisherman, Temu, pointed out the continued limitations of subsidized diesel, which remain a challenge for vessels under 30 gross tonnage (GT).

In front of Gibran, he hoped that the issue could be addressed promptly so that fishermen could conduct their activities more effectively.

“Cilacap consistently lacks subsidized diesel for vessels of 30 GT and below, Sir. I hope that perhaps the Vice President, this is what the people of Cilacap Regency are eagerly waiting for, so that this can be realized and provide safety and comfort for fishermen to go to sea properly,” Temu expressed.

In response, Gibran emphasized that the challenges faced by fishermen would be checked immediately to determine solutions.

“We’ll check what the shortcomings are later. We are here to solve the problems of the fishermen here,” Gibran remarked.

During the dialogue process, Gibran stressed that meeting fuel needs is vital for the smooth operation of fishermen.

He asserted that the government is obligated to fulfill those fuel requirements.

“Diesel is a crucial need for fishermen. It is the government's responsibility to ensure that quotas and availability of diesel align with the needs on the ground,” he stated firmly.

On this occasion, Gibran requested that Special Advisor to the Vice President, Tina Talisa, oversee the distribution of subsidized diesel in Cilacap to ensure it meets fishermen's needs.

“Ms. Tina, please ensure that the distribution of subsidized diesel in the Cilacap area runs smoothly, is not delayed, and that the quotas match existing needs. Also, ensure that there are no individuals manipulating the process, so that quotas for eligible fishermen can reach their intended targets,” he urged.

Moreover, the former mayor of Solo highlighted the administrative hurdles that some fishermen still face in obtaining purchase recommendation letters for subsidized diesel.

He encouraged fishermen who operate vessels under 30 GT and have not yet received recommendation letters to promptly visit the local Maritime and Fisheries Office (DKP).

Gibran requested that data on fishermen facing obstacles be compiled so that the processing can be followed up quickly.

“Mr. Deputy Secretary of the Vice President, please request a list of fishermen who have not received recommendation letters, we will forward this to BPH Migas and KKP so that the processing can be resolved quickly. For dredging and the construction of the embankment, we will coordinate with the Ministry of Public Works,” he recommended.

In addition to ensuring follow-up coordination among agencies, Gibran also opened communication channels to continuously monitor fishermen's aspirations after the visit.

He also requested fishermen's representatives to note the contact numbers of accompanying officials to stay informed about the progress in addressing the various issues raised.