Not Only Entertainment Affairs, Now Irfan Hakim Is Cultivating Koi Fish

Hartono Soekwanto and Irfan Hakim hunt for koi fish to Japan. (Instagram @irfanhakim75)

The world's koi trend is entering a new chapter. Hartono Soekwanto collaborated with Irfan Hakim to bring a rare variety from Japan, Yellow Monkey Koi, to Indonesia. Both assess that the bright yellow koi is on the rise globally and can become a new standard in the Indonesian ornamental fish industry.

The varieties of Yellow and Lemon Monkey come from the leading line of Japanese breeders such as Dainichi Koi Farm. In Europe, this koi has entered the auction market with high value, especially in the tosai and sansai classes. Solid yellow colors, scales, and stable genetic characters make it hunted by collectors and is considered potential as an investment asset.

The opportunity to see the quality of the parent firsthand occurred when Hartono and Irfan attended the World Nishikigoi Club (WNC) 2025 in Japan. The meeting also opened up opportunities for cooperation to bring the parent to Indonesia, including preparation for improvement and strengthening genetic quality.

"We will develop the Varietas Yellow and Lemon (Yellow) Monkey in Indonesia. I am optimistic that it will become a trend," Hartono Soekwanto said in a written statement received Monday (8/12).

Irfan Hakim assessed that this step is important to boost the reputation of the local koi industry. The initial stage will begin through quarantine, controlled aclimitization, and braking so that the quality remains the same as Japan, both color, body shape, and scales. "Hopefully, Mr. Hartono and I will make this koi successful," said Irfan.

The development of this imported variety is not without challenges. Climate adaptation, color stability, feed management, and quarantine facilities are determining factors. However, if successful, Indonesia has the opportunity to become an international-class Yellow Monkey Koi producer, expand the export market, and reduce dependence on adult fish imports.

Hartono and Irfan's move was referred to as a significant breakthrough at the start of the global koi 2025 trend an attempt to bring new colors to the national ornamental fish industry.