<p>Local governments play a crucial role in the development and empowerment of coastal communities, especially fishermen, within Indonesia's decentralized governance framework. This system delegates substantial responsibilities to local authorities, enabling them to implement policies and initiatives that support these communities. This study examines the role of local government in empowering small-scale fishing communities along Jakarta’s northern coastline, focusing on Kalibaru Village. As a major supplier of green mussels to the Jakarta metropolitan area and beyond, Kalibaru faces persistent socio-economic challenges despite its significance. A descriptive qualitative approach combined with content analysis was used to conduct the research. Data collection methods included in-depth interviews, field observations, and literature reviews. Informants were purposefully selected, representing various government levels—provincial, sub-district, and village—as well as members of small-scale fisher groups. The analysis identifies four key roles played by the Jakarta provincial government: regulator, dynamist, facilitator, and catalyst. While the government has taken steps to fulfill these roles, several challenges persist, such as the absence of specific regulations for small-scale fisher empowerment, inefficiencies in aid program implementation, and inadequate infrastructure and resource access. To address these issues, the study recommends strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing the transparency and effectiveness of aid distribution, and improving infrastructure and services to better support fishing activities. Achieving sustainable prosperity for Kalibaru's small-scale fishing communities requires strong multi-stakeholder collaboration.</p>