Professor of Fisheries Science at the Faculty of Agriculture, Gadjah Mada University (UGM), Prof. Dr. Ir. Ustadi, M.P., stated that Indonesia has great potential in developing surimi. Surimi is a Japanese term for minced fish meat processed into a ready-to-use paste. According to him, fish is a perishable food commodity that requires processing and preservation to maintain its quality. In Indonesia, fish processing is carried out using both traditional and modern methods, according to local and export needs. Quoting from the UGM website, Ustadi explained that Indonesia's rich marine resources support its important role in the global surimi industry. High demand comes from countries such as Japan, China, South Korea, and the United States. He highlighted that the potential raw material from marine catches in eastern Indonesia has not been optimally utilized. This region, however, holds an abundant supply of fish for industrial needs. Several types of fish, such as the mackerel (Decapterus), mullet (Moolgarda seheli), barnacle (Siganus), yellowtail (Upeneus sp.), and Indian mackerel, are highly suitable for surimi production. Freshwater fish such as gourami, pangasius, tilapia, carp, and catfish also have potential.

The quality of surimi from freshwater fish can be improved through food processing technology. Some potential ingredients include protease inhibitors, transglutaminase enzymes, gelling agents such as agar, carrageenan, alginate, egg white, and cryoprotectants such as nanochitosan. Ustadi explained that traditional methods such as salting, smoking, and boiling are still widely used by coastal communities. Meanwhile, large industries have developed modern technologies such as freezing, canning, and washing fish meat. Data from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries shows that 45% of fishery products are still processed traditionally. Around 40% use modern technology, and only 15% are further processed products such as surimi. Therefore, the development of efficient and equitable processing technology is crucial to supporting national food security. This can also increase the income of coastal communities through value-added products. Surimi is one of Indonesia's main export commodities, with production centers in East Java, East Kalimantan, and Lampung. 

Source:
https://trubus.id/surimi-jadi-peluang-indonesia-atasi-krisis-pangan-global/