PORTALJABAR, BEKASI REGENCY - A warm atmosphere and spirit of togetherness was felt at the PAL Jaya Fish Auction Place (TPI), Segarajaya Village, Bekasi Regency, Wednesday (22/10/2025).

The Gema Sholawat Nelayan Tarumajaya event, attended by the Deputy Regent (Wabup) of Bekasi, Asep Surya Atmaja, along with hundreds of coastal residents, became a momentum for friendship and the conveying of aspirations of the fishing community with the Bekasi Regency Government.

Asep addressed the fishing community directly. He emphasized the importance of education, health, and the fisheries and agriculture sectors as key pillars of national progress.

"If a country wants to progress, there are three important things: education, health, and agriculture or fisheries," he said.

Asep added that the local government continues to strive to ensure that public health services remain guaranteed, especially for fishermen and their families.

He highlighted the importance of having BPJS Health insurance so that people do not experience difficulties when they need medical services.

"There are around 40,000 BPJS participants whose coverage was temporarily suspended, but God willing, we will reactivate it in 2026. So, for those who don't have BPJS, please visit your nearest community health center to apply for one," he said.

On that occasion, Asep also conveyed the planned budget allocation of IDR 300 billion to strengthen BPJS services in Bekasi Regency.

This step is a concrete form of the local government's commitment to improving community welfare through easier and more equitable access to health care.

In addition to discussing health, Asep also highlighted the importance of establishing a Fishermen's Association, initiated by community leader Ustaz Tile. He believes this organization can serve as a bridge of communication between fishermen and the government.

"With the association, the aspirations and complaints of fishing communities can be conveyed directly to the government. For example, regarding fishing gear or work insurance. Without this, the government won't be able to understand the community's needs," he said.

Asep also emphasized that coastal areas hold significant potential for regional development. He said coastal communities are highly motivated and intelligent due to their healthy lifestyles, proximity to the sea and natural protein sources.

"People who live on the coast are usually intelligent because their food is highly nutritious and comes from the sea. So, the mothers here are all great, healthy, and intelligent," she said.

The Gema Sholawat Nelayan Tarumajaya event closed with a joint prayer and interactive dialogue between the Deputy Regent and residents.

Asep emphasized that through this activity, the Bekasi Regency Government hopes to forge stronger synergy between the government and the fishing community, in order to realize a Resurgent, Advanced, and Prosperous Bekasi Regency. (Bekasi Regency Communications and Information Office/UPI)