In the bustling waters of Aceh, Indonesia, a pressing need for reliable shipyard facilities has emerged, driven by a growing fishing fleet and the imperative for sustainable fisheries management. A recent study, led by Thaib Rizwan from Universitas Syiah Kuala and published in the Journal of the Korean Society of Marine Engineering (한국해양공학회지), has shed light on the optimal shipyard model for Kutaraja Fishing Port, offering valuable insights for maritime professionals and stakeholders.
The research, which integrated the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP) and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), aimed to evaluate and rank different shipyard models based on technical, operational, and environmental criteria. Rizwan and his team surveyed a diverse group of experts, including shipbuilders, engineers, fisheries officers, and academics, to gather data for their analysis.
So, what did they find? The slipway model emerged as the top choice, scoring 43.65%, followed by the graving dock (34.29%) and floating dock (22.06%). “The slipway model is recommended as the most suitable solution to meet Aceh’s shipbuilding and maintenance needs,” Rizwan stated, highlighting its potential to support sustainable fisheries infrastructure development.
But what does this mean for the maritime industry? The findings present a significant opportunity for shipyard developers and investors to focus on slipway models, particularly in regions with similar needs and challenges. By adopting this model, ports can enhance their shipbuilding and maintenance capabilities, ultimately supporting the growth and sustainability of the fishing industry.
Moreover, the integration of fuzzy AHP and TOPSIS in this study demonstrates the power of advanced decision-making tools in maritime infrastructure planning. As Rizwan noted, “The use of fuzzy AHP and TOPSIS allowed us to assign weights to each criterion and rank alternative shipyard models based on their closeness to the ideal solution.” This approach can be replicated in other maritime projects, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions that balance technical, operational, and environmental factors.
In essence, this research serves as a valuable guide for maritime professionals seeking to optimize shipyard facilities and support sustainable fisheries management. By embracing the slipway model and leveraging advanced decision-making tools, the maritime industry can drive growth and innovation in the years to come.