Koto Masjid Village, even though it is not well known among the Indonesian people, apparently has an extraordinary story that has led it to be included in the top 50 nominations for the 2021 Tourism Village Award (ADWI). Located in Riau Province, this small village is in the spotlight thanks to the efforts of Suhaimi, a successful pioneer in Patin Village. This village is not only known as a village that processes catfish into various food products, but has also become an attractive tourism destination.
Suhaimi, with his determination, succeeded in changing the fate of Koto Masjid Village to become a tourism magnet. A village that was originally remote and unknown has now become an inspiring example of how innovation in catfish processing can bring prosperity and success.
The beginning of the struggle; relocation and economic limitations
Koto Masjid village, which is now a successful center for catfish fishing, experienced difficult times in its history. In 1989-1992, relocation due to the construction of the Koto Panjang hydroelectric reservoir presented major challenges for its residents. The village was moved to a higher location, causing significant changes in their environment and lifestyle. Initially dependent on the rubber plantation sector, the villagers were hampered by weather factors, especially rain which hampered the process of providing water to their rubber plants.
However, change was inevitable when Suhaimi, a pioneer in this village, emerged with a new vision. He succeeded in changing the fate of Koto Masjid Village by replacing dependence on rubber with innovation in catfish fisheries. This transformation brought the village out of economic constraints and into a successful fishing center, creating an inspiring success story.
Changes through the catfish pond
The change that became a turning point for Koto Masjid Village began with the presence of Suhaimi, a pioneer who played an important role in changing the face of the village. In various conversations, Suhaimi shared his sincere intention to bring happiness and prosperity to his community. Even though he faced a long journey filled with challenges, his determination did not weaken, and the results he achieved were truly satisfying.
With full dedication, Suhaimi succeeded in developing catfish ponds as an innovative solution to improve the village economy. Koto Masjid Village, which was previously only known as a rubber plantation area, has now transformed into the Kampung Patin Tourism Village which has become a leading fishing center. With extraordinary production reaching 15 tons of catfish per day, the welfare of the people in this village has improved significantly, proving that sincere intentions and innovation can bring positive changes to people's lives.
"There is no house without a pool", the motto that colors Kampung Patin
Suhaimi, with his determination, succeeded in bringing about significant changes. Koto Masjid village, which was initially characterized by limitations and dependence on the plantation sector, now shines with the diversity of catfish ponds. "Now there are 160 hectares of fish ponds which support the economy of residents in Patin Village. Almost every house here has a fish pond. One house has at least one pangasius pond, so Koto Masjid Village has the motto 'No House Without a Pond'," said Suhaimi. proud as quoted from the compass.
The motto "There is no house without a pool" in Patin Village is not just an empty slogan; it reflects the reality that lives in every home in this village. Fish ponds are an inseparable element of everyday life, making every home seem to be part of a sustainable fisheries ecosystem. As time goes by, fish ponds are not only a source of income, but also become the main attraction for tourists who come to visit.
The uniqueness of Patin Village lies in the role of fish ponds which goes beyond the purely economic aspect. These ponds are not only a place to cultivate catfish, but are also a main attraction in the context of natural tourism and education. Visitors are not only presented with beautiful natural panoramas, but also have the opportunity to understand more deeply about sustainable fishing processes. This is what makes Kampung Patin not only a holiday destination, but also an attractive learning center for various groups.
Pangasius cultivation pond in Patin Village
Positive impact; welfare and tourism collaborate
According to Suhaimi, the development of Patin Village is not only focused on the fisheries sector. This village has succeeded in creating an environment that supports the overall welfare of its people. The harvest of catfish, which is the backbone of the village economy, reached an impressive figure, namely 190 million rupiah per day. This success has had a significant impact on the level of living and economic sustainability of citizens, proving that diversifying economic sectors can produce extraordinary benefits.
Not only in the fisheries sector, the tourism potential in Patin Village also boosts the village's economic growth. This unique natural tourist destination is able to attract the attention of various groups, including students, students, farmer groups and government officials. Their presence is not only driven by natural beauty, but also by the desire to understand more deeply the fishing innovations carried out by local residents. Kampung Patin has become more than just an ordinary holiday destination; it has become an exciting learning arena, creating close links between tourism, innovation and local economic development.
The success of Patin Village in integrating economic and tourism aspects into one unit has created a sustainable development model that should be used as an example. By paying attention to these two sectors, Kampung Patin is able to create a mutually beneficial synergy between the economy and education, making it a destination that not only provides a satisfying holiday experience but also a source of inspiration and sustainable learning.
Education and social roles
The success of Patin Village is not only reflected in the economic and tourism aspects, but also involves creating an environment that supports education and social roles. Local schools in this village are able to harness the potential of tourism as a living learning resource, enriching students' educational experiences by integrating real field activities. This initiative opens up new opportunities for students to directly understand learning concepts about fisheries ecosystems and sustainable practices.
Not only that, the success of Patin Village has also invited the participation of students and academics in research and case studies in the field. This village is an ideal natural laboratory for investigating various aspects of fisheries, catfish cultivation, and their impact on the economy and the environment. Through this collaboration, the quality of local education is improved, while contributions to the development of better and more sustainable fishing methods are growing. This is proof that the success of a community can transcend economic boundaries and create a positive impact in the realm of education and knowledge.
Kampung Patin collaboration with the world of education
Challenges and hopes for the future
Even though Kampung Patin has achieved extraordinary success, future challenges are a reality that cannot be ignored. Factors such as climate change, shifts in people's consumption patterns, and changes in government regulations may affect business continuity in this village. Climate change can affect the environmental conditions of catfish, while changes in people's consumption patterns can affect demand for catfish products. In addition, changes in government regulations regarding the environment and fisheries may require adjustments in farming and marketing practices.
Therefore, this challenge is a call for Suhaimi and the people of Kampung Patin to continue to adapt, innovate and maintain the sustainability of their business. Through collaboration with various parties, be they government agencies, research institutions, or private parties, they can identify effective and sustainable solutions. Proactive steps, such as improvements in environmentally friendly practices and product diversification, may be the key to keeping Kampung Patin a sustainable and successful fishing center in the future.
Conclusion
In his long journey, Suhaimi not only became a pioneer in developing catfish ponds in Patin Village, but also became an inspirational figure for village communities and outside the village. Its success brought significant changes, not only in economic aspects, but also in social and educational aspects.
Koto Masjid village, which was originally only inhabited by limitations and dependence on the plantation sector, has now become a real example of how courage, perseverance and the right policies can change the fate of a community. Patin Village is not just a tourist destination, but also a symbol of success in facing change and creating a brighter future.
Suhaimi, with his inspiring story, has proven that every challenge can be turned into an opportunity, as long as there is sincere intention, hard work and a willingness to innovate. Patin Village, with all its uniqueness and success, is a mirror for other villages to explore their local potential and develop it for shared prosperity.
Reference
