Lecturers from Universitas Brawijaya (UB) conducted research related to the development of the blue economy on East Java coastal. They are Dr. Ir. Anthon Efani, MP (Chair), together with Prof. Dr. Asfi Manzilati, ME, and Fitri Candra Wardana, SE, M.ACC.
Supported by funding from UB Postgraduate School (SP UB), the research entitled “Implications of Agribusiness Intervention in Overcoming Barriers to the Development of the Blue Economy, Prospects for Sustainability and Food Security on the Coast of East Java” is expected to produce a sustainable and adaptive economic development model to support food security in coastal areas. This activity will be carried out from July to November 2025.
Anthon Efani said that this research focuses on the challenges faced in implementing the concept of the blue economy, an innovative approach that combines technology, environment, and economy to create sustainable welfare. The main objective of this study is to identify the main driving factors that influence the success of blue economy development in coastal East Java, as well as to address the structural and institutional barriers that often hinder socio-economic and ecological sustainability in the region.
“This study involves participation from various stakeholders, including local governments, fishermen, academics, entrepreneurs, and non-governmental organizations. With a total of 150 respondents, we hope to gain a comprehensive understanding of the needs and opportunities that exist in coastal East Java. Each participant is expected to provide in-depth insights into the challenges faced and the potential that can be developed through the application of the blue economy,” said Anton.
He added that the three selected research locations, namely Malang, Trenggalek, and Probolinggo, have diverse geographical, social, and economic characteristics. This allows the research team to get a broader picture of the overall condition of the East Java coast.
“Malang is known for its diverse agribusiness activities, Trenggalek is unique in marine resources, while Probolinggo has rich coastal economic activities, including fisheries and tourism,” he continued.
In this study, the research team used the MICMAC (Matrix of Cross Impact Multiplication Applied to Classification) method to analyze the relationship between strategic variables and determine key factors in the success of blue economy development. With this technique, the team can map variables that influence each other, such as the availability of marine technology, the level of community participation in resource management, local government involvement, the quality of coastal ecosystems, and environmental policy enforcement.
“We hope that the results of this analysis will reveal the main variables that can be prioritized in developing policies that support the sustainability of the marine and coastal sectors,” said Anthon.
Anthon also highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving the objectives of this study. According to him, developing a blue economy requires a holistic approach that involves all stakeholders, from academics and government to coastal communities.
In addition, the team identified that increasing technology adoption and community participation are the main keys to creating a balance between the use and conservation of marine resources.
The results of this study have been published in reputable international scientific journals and are expected to contribute to government policies. He hopes that these findings can be used by local and central governments to formulate policies related to the management of marine and fisheries resources to strengthen food security and support the welfare of coastal communities. And can provide significant impacts, both at the local and national levels, and be a reference for further studies on sustainable economic development in coastal areas of Indonesia. [Hilya/Irene/UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
