Indonesian Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Susi Pudjiastuti – who has made blowing up boats to curb illegal fishing one of her main missions – has won the highest approval rating among a recent survey of the country’s ministers.

The brash, outspoken high-school dropout received a 61% approval rating, a survey conducted by the Indonesian Survey Institute polling agency shows. She is the only one of the 28 ministers included in the poll to earn a rating above 50%. Incumbent Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saefuddin place second with 48.4% followed closely by Social Affairs Minister Khofifah Indar Parawansa, with 48.3%.

President Joko Widodo’s cabinet selection drew mixed reactions back in October, with key posts going to a mix of technocrats and politically connected individuals. But Ms. Pudjiastuti was a standout for being so nonconformist.

Dodi Ambardi, director of the Indonesian Survey Institute (LSI), said her policy to curb illegal fishing by blowing up vessels operating illegally in Indonesian waters, has clearly been applauded by the public. Ms. Pudjiastuti has been enjoying some media exposure, he said, making the public more aware of her programs and initiatives.

“Her programs and policies resonate with the public's concerns and sentiments," said Mr. Ambardi.