Bandung, Indonesia, 26 April 2024 – In Indonesia, the concept of the Blue Economy is gaining prominence as the nation seeks to harness its vast marine resources for economic growth while addressing the pressing need for climate resilience. With a sprawling archipelago and rich marine biodiversity, Indonesia boasts approximately 3.3 million hectares of mangroves, acting as vital carbon sinks, equivalent to approximately 3.3 gigatons of carbon, representing 17% of the global blue carbon.
To achieve sustainable development, break free from the middle-income trap, and become a high-income country by 2045, Indonesia is targeting economic growth of 6-7 percent, with the blue economy being a major factor in its achievement. However, one of the challenges Indonesia faces now is balancing industrial development with environmental preservation. Through initiatives which focus on sustainable fisheries, marine tourism, renewable energy, and ecosystem protection, Indonesia aims to foster economic prosperity while safeguarding its oceans. Collaborative efforts between government, private sector, and civil society are essential to achieving this delicate equilibrium, positioning Indonesia as a global leader in sustainable ocean management and conservation.
Today, the Chevening Alumni Association Indonesia (CAAI), in collaboration with The Indonesian Center for the Law of the Sea (ICLOS) at Padjadjaran University, and supported by Pupuk Indonesia, convened a diverse gathering of stakeholders, including representatives from local communities, youth organizations, academia, and government bodies, totalling 70 participants online and in-person. The academic discourse aims to analyze the current status of Blue Economy initiatives in Indonesia, identify key challenges and opportunities for balancing economic growth and climate resilience in Indonesia's maritime sector, and promote knowledge-sharing and information dissemination regarding Blue Economy potential in Indonesia.
Nadhila Renaldi, President of CAAI 2023-2024, said: “Out of a cohort of 1000 alumni, approximately 5-10% of Chevening alumni specialize in climate change. Today, we aim to spotlight the theme of 'Harnessing the Ocean-Climate Nexus,' recognizing the criticality of this issue, especially with the context of Indonesia as an archipelagic country, with 62% of its population residing in coastal regions. These communities are poised to be among the most impacted by climate change”
Dr. Sigid Suseno, S.H., M.Hum., said: “Climate change is a crucial topic to be discussed and this issue can be seen from many perspectives, but whichever perspective we observe this issue, the same question we need to ask is always “what can we do to solve this issue”. This academic discourse is a crucial step to increase the awareness about this issue.”
Wahyu Wijayanto, Director of Foreign Policy and International Development Cooperation at BAPPENAS, said: “Indonesia through BAPPENAS is currently preparing for the long term sustainable development goal from 2025-2045 and mid term planning from 2025-2029, in which blue economy becomes one of the scale priorities for our sustainable development goals. This aligns with the global development goal. We hope that this plan can add more value for Indonesia and bring positive impact towards our economy.”
Grita Anindarini, University of Aberdeen; Chevening 2017/2018, said: “Indonesia is currently facing a trifecta of formidable challenges: Environmental pollution, a biodiversity crisis, and climate crisis.Projections from COP28 indicate that without substantial progress, global temperatures could surge by 2.1 to 2.8°C, exceeding the targeted limit of 1.5°C. Indonesia, with its reliance on key sectors like agriculture, natural resources, and fisheries, stands particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.”
A. Gusman Siswandi, Associate Professor at Universitas Padjadjaran; University of College London; Chevening 2004/2005, said: “The realm of international law has long been engaged in addressing and safeguarding against the challenges posed by the triple planetary crisis. Yet, enhancing the efficacy of this legal framework requires a collaborative approach, whereby the laws pertaining to each facet of this crisis - environmental, biodiversity, and climate - are intertwined and mutually reinforcing.”
Chloryne Dewi, Lecturer at Universitas Padjadjaran; Chevening Alumni, said: “For coastal communities, who are the most affected communities of climate change, access to clean water is a privilege. As fishermen, they bear the brunt of extreme weather events, disrupting not only their livelihoods but also their fundamental well-being. The repercussions extend beyond economic losses, touching upon health concerns and domestic stability. The need for concerted action to address these challenges and protect the most vulnerable among us is abundantly clear. ”
Davina Oktivana, Lecturer at Universitas Padjadjaran, said: “The current legal framework must prioritize the protection of local economies. To achieve this, it is imperative for the government to implement regulations that are finely tuned to address the needs of communities. By establishing regulations from the bottom up, we can ensure that they are precisely targeted and effectively safeguard local economies against adverse impacts.”
In conclusion, the academic discourse highlighted the critical importance of sustainable ocean management in Indonesia’s journey towards economic prosperity and climate resilience. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders and leveraging innovative solutions, Indonesia is poised to emerge as a global leader in balancing economic growth with environmental preservation in its maritime sector.
About Chevening Alumni Association Indonesia (CAAI): CAAI is a vibrant and dynamic community that brings together the brightest minds and the most forward-thinking leaders who have been part of the prestigious Chevening Scholarship program. Our mission is to foster a network of professionals committed to contributing positively to the development and prosperity of Indonesia and to maintain strong ties between Indonesia and the United Kingdom.
About The Indonesian Center for the Law of the Sea (ICLOS), Padjadjaran University: ICLOS is a renowned institution dedicated to research, education, and policy advocacy in maritime law and governance. With the expertise in (mention specific areas of expertise), ICLOS plays a pivotal role in shaping Indonesia’s maritime policy landscape.
About Pupuk Indonesia: Pupuk Indonesia group produces and markets Urea, NPK, and various types of fertilizers. Pupuk Indonesia also produces ammonia, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and other petrochemical products. In carrying out business activities, Pupuk Indonesia Group does not only think about profit, but also has a commitment to create benefits for the planet and people. To realize this commitment, the implementation of Environmental Social Responsibility (ESR) activities is very important.
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