PT Indonesia Batu Prima Energi (IBPE) officially launched its Freshwater Fish Farming Program as part of the company’s Community Development and Empowerment (PPM) commitment. The initiative is implemented in collaboration with the Harapan Alam Fish Breeding Group in Dusun Pertamin, Sungai Lilin Induk, Sungai Lilin District, Musi Banyuasin Regency.
The inauguration was marked by the release of 30,000 catfish and patin fish fry into 13 fish cages that had been built jointly by the Harapan Alam Fish Farming Group. The symbolic release of these fry not only marked the start of fish farming activities, but also served as a moment of unity between the company, the community, and the local government in promoting local economic independence.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives from the Musi Banyuasin Regency Fisheries Service, the Sungai Lilin Induk Village Government, representatives from PT IBPE management, members of the Harapan Alam Fish Breeding Group, and local community leaders. The presence of these multiple stakeholders demonstrated their full support for this collaborative effort, which is expected to have a sustainable social and economic impact.
On this occasion, Usman Amri, as a representative of PT IBPE management, expressed his hope that this program would not only be a symbol, but would also provide tangible benefits.
“We envision this freshwater fish farming initiative as more than just a symbolic program. It is designed to open new economic opportunities for the Sungai Lilin community, increase household income, strengthen local food security, and serve as a model for sustainable community empowerment” said Usman Amri, representing PT IBPE management.
Beyond fingerling distribution, PT IBPE also provided supporting infrastructure such as fish cages and continuous mentoring. This approach enables the community to actively engage in aquaculture, transitioning from beneficiaries to independent practitioners. The close partnership between the company and the community in managing local resources is a key achievement of this program.
For the people of Dusun Pertamin, the initiative brings renewed optimism. The fish cages, now filled with fingerlings, are expected to become productive economic assets, generating business opportunities and fostering self-reliance. The first collective harvest is projected for the end of 2025.
Through this initiative, PT Indonesia Batu Prima Energi reaffirms its commitment to delivering tangible social and environmental contributions beyond core operations. The freshwater fish farming program in Sungai Lilin marks the beginning of the company’s sustainable efforts to support community welfare improvement in Musi Banyuasin.
