Local Government Policies of Gresik Regency in Developing Aquaculture Based on the Blue Economy: A Maqasid Shariah Perspective

Abstract

Gresik Regency holds a strategic position as one of the aquaculture centers in East Java, particularly for milkfish and shrimp, which serve as the main economic pillars for coastal communities. In line with the growing national Blue Economy paradigm, local governments are required to formulate policies that not only pursue economic growth but also emphasize ecological sustainability, reduce conflicts over coastal space utilization, and improve social welfare. This article aims to analyze the policies of Gresik Regency in developing aquaculture by integrating the principles of the Blue Economy and Maqasid Shariah. Through a literature review, it was found that local policies, such as the Minapolitan program, have contributed to strengthening sustainable fisheries governance. However, implementation still faces challenges, including low aquaculture technology literacy, limited capital, and weak integration of Islamic values in pond management practices. The Maqasid Shariah approach is relevant because its principles—protection of wealth (hifz al-mal), life (hifz al-nafs), intellect (hifz al-‘aql), lineage (hifz al-nasl), and religion (hifz al-din)—can serve as an ethical foundation for public policy formulation oriented toward justice and sustainability. This integration also has the potential to strengthen the social legitimacy of policies at the local level. The analysis shows that Gresik’s policy direction is already aligned with the national Blue Economy Roadmap. However, institutional strengthening, access to sustainable financing, and conflict risk mitigation among stakeholders are still required. By combining the Blue Economy concept and Maqasid Shariah, aquaculture development in Gresik Regency can be directed toward becoming a more holistic, sustainable coastal development model that brings prosperity to society.