UNAIR NEWS – Muhammad Syarif Satriyo Samudra, a student at UNAIR’s Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK), has successfully founded two companies specializing in aquaculture. He is distinguished as a high-achieving student, holding ownership of PT. Rejeki Bintang Samudra and CV. Mulya Samudra Maju Abadi, both focusing on the cultivation of Gracilaria seaweed.
Samudra mentioned that his companies are interconnected. PT. Rejeki Samudra operates as a key player in Gracilaria seaweed pond cultivation. The company utilizes abandoned land in Surabaya, Sidoarjo, and Gresik.
Long journey
Samudra stated that he initiated this venture in 2020 and has been actively involved since then. The enterprise collaborates with several individuals associated with the Ciputra Entrepreneur Club. He explained that he and his partners share responsibilities, handling tasks from seaweed cultivation management to marketing.
“One of my greatest motivations stems from a message from my late father, urging me to contribute to the advancement of seaweed cultivation around the Sidoarjo area. Despite the challenges, I strive to innovate in line with market demands and the use of vacant land near Sidoarjo,” he said.
Samudra explained that mental resilience is crucial throughout the business implementation process. Cultivation success is intricately linked to the conditions of living organisms, where effective management of cultivated species determines outcomes. “We must draw closer to God, praying for continued business,” he conveyed.
Application of knowledge
Samudra revealed that the knowledge gained during his studies is applied as business strategies. Gracilaria seaweed, known for its short harvesting period, offers economic benefits to farmers.
“My professors emphasized that as an aquaculture student, I must apply my knowledge through hands-on cultivation practices during my studies to bridge theory with practicality. Despite being actively enrolled, I must effectively balance study time with sustaining the business I operate,” he stated.
Samudra encouraged all students, particularly those studying aquaculture, to embrace practical experience. Indonesia’s potential as a maritime nation should be fully utilized to cultivate food products from the marine sector. “While you are still student, do not hesitate to launch a business, especially in aquaculture. If not us, who will safeguard Indonesia’s potential?” he concluded.
Author: M. Akmal Syawal
Editor : Khefti Al Mawalia
