Syaipul Bakhori, Jakarta – The oil and gas exploration activities carried out by a Malaysian company, Petronas, in Jambi's east coastal waters, is worrying fishermen in West Tanjungjabung Regency area, Jambi Province.

This is because the local traditional fishermen's income is decreasing. M. Ali, 36, one of traditional fishermen from Sungaidualap Village, said that during the last few months, the local fishermen's income has been decreasing, Monday (25/6).

"Usually, from trip out to sea, we could obtain 30 to 50 kilograms of fish. Now to get only 10 kilograms it's already hard, ever since exploration was started," he said.

The residents have sent a letter of protest to the West Tanjungjabung Regent in order to look for a solution.

Zabur Rustam, Head of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Service for West Tanjungjabung Regency, acknowledged that the Sungaidualap villagers sent a letter to his office and a copy to the Regent. Syafrial, the West Tanjungjabung Regent, has ordered the regional Working Unit Instrument to verify the report.

Zabur acknowledged that he has gone to the scene, however, up to now has not yet received any information from Petronas. "From Petronas, none has been willing to comment," he said.

Exploration activities performed by Petronas are actually located in East Tanjungjabung Regency. But the effects are felt by fishermen in West Tanjungjabung Regency, bearing in mind the exploration area is at exactly the border between the two areas.