Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesia is ramping up efforts to expand its marine protected areas (MPAs) as part of its long-term strategy to build a sustainable blue economy by 2045, according to Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Sakti Wahyu Trenggono.
Trenggono emphasised that the Indonesian government aims to increase the total coverage of MPAs to 97.5 million hectares by 2045. This initiative forms a key component of the “Golden Indonesia 2045” vision, which prioritises sustainable maritime development and environmental protection.
While significant progress has been made in designating conservation zones, Trenggono expressed his concern that many protected areas remain vulnerable to encroachment, threatening critical marine ecosystems. To address this, he reiterated the ministry’s position on banning cargo, passenger, and fishing vessels from navigating through conservation zones, particularly around ecologically sensitive regions such as Bali and the Lombok Strait.
In parallel with environmental efforts, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries is also advancing initiatives to promote fish consumption and raise nutritional awareness in local communities. These initiatives align with the government's “Free Nutritious Meals” (MBG) programme, which aims to combat malnutrition and enhance human capital.
Indonesia is also actively participating in the Aquatic Blue Food Coalition, a global alliance focused on strengthening food and nutrition security, building climate resilience, and protecting ocean biodiversity through sustainable aquatic food systems.
Trenggono affirmed that these commitments align with Indonesia’s five priority programmes under its green economy strategy, which seek to maximise the country’s maritime and fisheries potential while supporting long-term national economic growth.
The expansion of marine protected areas not only reinforces Indonesia’s leadership in ocean conservation but also signals its intent to balance economic development with environmental stewardship in the decades ahead./.
