National Fish Day (Harkannas) is celebrated annually on November 21. This important day was established by the President of the Republic of Indonesia through Presidential Decree No. 3 of 2014, signed on January 24, 2014. Harkannas is held as a tribute to Indonesia’s vast fishery potential and as an effort to raise public awareness of the importance of fish as a high-nutritional food source.
Background of National Fish Day Establishment
Indonesia is the largest archipelagic country in the world with abundant fishery resources. There are two main reasons behind the establishment of Harkannas:
- Optimizing Fishery Potential: Indonesia has fishery potential that must be utilized optimally and sustainably for the nation’s benefit.
- Improving Human Resources Quality: To support national food security and nutrition, efforts are needed to increase public awareness of the importance of fish as a high-quality food rich in protein.
National Fish Day Logo and Its Meaning
The National Fish Day logo, featuring a silhouette of a fish and a person intertwined, was established through the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Decree No. 70 of 2014. This logo has profound meanings:
- Silhouette of Fish and Person: Represents the pride of Indonesians as a maritime nation and the public’s fondness for consuming fish.
- Person Raising Hands: Symbolizes the spirit, health, intelligence, skills, and joy derived from consuming fish.
- Blue and Yellow Colors: Represent the diversity of Indonesia’s fishery resources.
- Dark Blue on the Human Body: Depicts the identity of Indonesians as a maritime nation.
- Light Blue on the Human Body: Depicts the maritime culture ingrained in the lives of Indonesians.
- Dark Blue on the Fish Tail: Symbolizes sustainability and conservation principles in utilizing marine and fishery resources.
- Harkannas Text: Gives a dynamic and modern impression, indicating the balance and strong bond among stakeholders to develop fisheries as a pillar of development.
Activities in Commemoration of National Fish Day
Each year, various activities are held to commemorate Harkannas, including:
- Seminars and Workshops: Discussions and counseling about the benefits of fish and sustainable fisheries.
- Design and Photo Competitions: Creative competitions related to fishery themes.
- UMKM Product Exhibitions: Showcasing Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) products from 34 provinces related to fish and fisheries.
- Fish Consumption Campaigns: Encouraging the public to increase fish consumption as part of a healthy diet.
Regal Springs Indonesia’s Support for Harkannas
Regal Springs Indonesia, as a leading tilapia farming company, fully supports Harkannas. The company has been active in various Harkannas celebration activities for years. For example, in 2023, Regal Springs Indonesia celebrated Harkannas by organizing an educational event themed “Eat Fish, Healthy Investment for the Golden Generation” in Jakarta. This event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) to promote the importance of fish consumption for the health and development of children.
With support from various parties, including Regal Springs Indonesia, National Fish Day is not just a day of celebration but also a moment to strengthen public awareness of the importance of fish in daily diets. Let us all support and celebrate Harkannas for a healthier and more prosperous Indonesia!
