Sukadana (Borneo Tribun) — As the peak fishing season arrives for kelong fishermen in Pelapis Village, PT Dharma Inti Bersama (PT DIB) has distributed dozens of underwater fishing lights to around 130 local fishermen. This assistance is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of catching fish and squid in the waters of the Karimata Islands.
The timing of this support is considered ideal, as Pelapis fishermen are entering the busiest period of the fishing season, when activities on the kelong increase sharply. During this time, successful fishing operations rely heavily on proper equipment, including effective lighting to attract schools of fish around the kelong.
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| DIB Distributes Underwater Fishing Lights to Boost Pelapis Fishermen’s Catch. |
Underwater fishing lights, a type of submersible illumination device, have become increasingly popular among fishermen in various regions. Several fishermen supported by PT DIB’s CSR program who previously tried the tool reported a notable increase in their catch, especially for anchovies and squid — the main commodities for kelong fishermen in Pelapis Village.
About 130 fishermen from three hamlets — Dusun Raya, Dusun Jaya, and Dusun Kelawar — received the lights. The fishermen welcomed this assistance with enthusiasm, as the equipment can be used immediately during the peak fishing season, which is expected to continue until early next year.
Saruji, Head of Community and Village Empowerment for the Karimata Islands Subdistrict, expressed his appreciation for PT DIB’s initiative.
“We would like to thank DIB for providing these underwater lights. Hopefully, this equipment will help improve fishermen’s catches on the kelong. The season has just begun, and some residents have already started earning results. With these lights, we hope their catch will be even higher,” he said.
Fishermen are already noticing early benefits from the technology. Tomo, a local fisherman, shared that underwater lights offer greater potential during this once-a-year season.
“The amount of fish we catch depends on many factors. But with complete equipment and the right spot, the results can be much better. I’ve seen my friend’s kelong using these underwater lights — anchovies immediately circle around it. Hopefully, the fish will come in even more once we start using it,” he said.
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| DIB Distributes Underwater Fishing Lights to Boost Pelapis Fishermen’s Catch. |
PT DIB’s External Relation Manager, Seno Ario Wibowo, explained that this program is part of the company’s Economic CSR initiative aimed at supporting the optimization of local capture fisheries.
“We distributed these underwater lights so fishermen can make the most of the fishing season. PT DIB is committed to supporting the economic improvement of Pelapis communities by providing effective and environmentally friendly fishing tools. We hope the benefits can be felt right away this season,” Seno stated.
He added that the program goes beyond handing out equipment — it will continue with technical guidance and monitoring to ensure the lights work optimally and provide consistent results for the fishermen.
This capture fisheries optimization program — combined with freshwater fish cultivation through aquaponic ponds and seafood processing activities by women’s groups in Pelapis Village — is part of PT DIB’s broader CSR efforts. The initiative represents a synergy between the company, the government, and the community to strengthen the local economy in Kayong Utara, especially in Pelapis Village. ***
