Patron-Client in Socio Economic Relations of Fisherman in the Coastal Area of Bandar Lampung City, Indonesia

Abstract

The existence of patrons (juragan) in fishing communities is very strong because patrons are people of a higher socio-economic level. Meanwhile, worker fishermen (clients) who do not have fishing equipment or boats are forced to work for patrons by borrowing boats and their fishing equipment. The aim of this research is to describe and interpret the characteristics of the socio-economic relations between patrons (juragan) and fishermen workers (clients) who live in the coastal area of Kotakarang District, Bandar Lampung City, Indonesia. This type of research was carried out in a qualitative descriptive manner. Data collection techniques through observation or field observations and in-depth interviews. Data analysis was used by looking at observation notes supported by collected research photo documentation which was then analyzed using qualitative analysis. The research results showed that the fishing community carried out fishing activities using fishing gear. In its operation, it requires the help of a motorboat which is an asset owned by the boss. Apart from that, the patrons also provides operational capital assistance for working fishermen at sea. Therefore, the socio-economic position of the skipper is higher than that of the worker fisherman, so they have a very large level of influence and dependence. With this support, fishermen workers feel emotionally indebted, causing them to obey and obey their patrons as owners of capital. However, even though working fishermen continue to work hard, the fact is that they are still faced with economic problems, so that in these conditions the boss will be present to provide compensation assistance to solve the problems they are facing. Therefore, the socio-economic relationship between bosses and fishermen will continue because it is mutually beneficial for both of them.