Jakarta, July 22 -- Indonesia will launch a nationwide aquaculture expansion program in 2026 covering 40,000 thematic villages to boost protein self-sufficiency, improve livelihoods and expand fish and shrimp exports.

Aquaculture Director General Haeru Rahayu said Wednesday that the Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry was coordinating with the Home Affairs Ministry, Villages Ministry and regional governments.

"We are collaborating with all ministries and agencies," Rahayu said.

He said the aquaculture village program differs from the Red and White Fishing Villages program, which focuses on strengthening the capture fisheries sector.

"This initiative is not part of the KNMP program," Rahayu said, referring to the Red and White Fishin...