The Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Airlangga (FPK UNAIR), continues to demonstrate its global impact through the achievements of its alumni. One of the most inspiring figures is Slamet Agus Wijaya, S.Pi., a member of the first cohort (Class of 2001) of the Aquaculture Study Program, who now serves as Operational Director of PT Kaia Anugerah Indonesia. His professional journey reflects not only personal success but also the strategic role of FPK UNAIR in nurturing competitive human resources capable of contributing to the global fisheries industry.
Slamet Agus Wijaya began his academic journey when the Aquaculture Study Program was still under the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universitas Airlangga. Being part of the pioneering cohort shaped his resilience, adaptability, and leadership skills—qualities that have proven essential in navigating more than two decades in the fisheries sector. Today, as Operational Director of PT Kaia Anugerah Indonesia, he oversees operational strategies, supply chain management, and quality assurance systems within a company engaged in seafood processing and distribution for both domestic and international markets. The company manages integrated operations, from raw material procurement and freezing processes to filleting and global marketing. Its flagship products, including tuna, red snapper, and blue swimming crab, have successfully penetrated international markets such as the United States, Japan, and several European countries. This achievement underscores how academic foundations built at FPK UNAIR translate into tangible contributions within global industry networks.
Over the course of his 21-year career, Slamet has faced significant global challenges that have reshaped the fisheries industry. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted supply chains, reduced export demand, and forced companies worldwide to adapt rapidly to uncertain market conditions. In addition, geopolitical tensions and fluctuating international trade policies have directly influenced export dynamics and pricing structures. In response, PT Kaia Anugerah Indonesia implemented risk mitigation strategies, strengthened quality control systems, and optimized operational efficiency to remain competitive. These adaptive measures highlight the importance of sustainable marine resource management and responsible fisheries practices to ensure long-term sector resilience. The company’s commitment to maintaining product quality and food safety standards has been a key factor in sustaining trust among international buyers and reinforcing Indonesia’s position in the global seafood market.
As a leader, Slamet emphasizes that business growth must go hand in hand with human resource development. Of the approximately 300 staff members under his supervision, 25 are alumni of FPK UNAIR. Notably, around 60 percent of these alumni have advanced to managerial-level positions, demonstrating the high competitiveness and professional readiness of FPK UNAIR graduates. This strong representation reflects the synergy between higher education and industry, where academic knowledge, research exposure, and practical training provide graduates with the competencies needed to excel in professional environments. The company’s dedication to maintaining seafood quality and supporting sustainable fisheries aligns with the principles of SDG 14 (Life Below Water), particularly in promoting responsible marine resource management. Furthermore, the active involvement of FPK UNAIR alumni within the industry embodies the spirit of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), strengthening collaboration between academia and the private sector to address global development challenges.
Slamet Agus Wijaya’s achievements serve as a source of motivation for current students and fellow alumni of FPK UNAIR to continuously innovate and contribute to sustainable fisheries development. His journey illustrates how academic excellence, strengthened by real-world industry experience, becomes a powerful foundation for navigating global challenges while creating new opportunities. Through stories like this, FPK UNAIR reaffirms its commitment to producing not only qualified graduates but also change agents capable of delivering meaningful impacts on society, industry, and the marine environment.
