Indonesia and Singapore commit to enhancing cooperation in marine and fisheries sectors through blue economy initiatives, focusing on sustainability and economic growth.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) and the Government of Singapore have pledged to deepen their cooperation in the marine and fisheries sectors, with a focus on implementing blue economy programs. This agreement was reached during a meeting between Indonesian Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, and Singaporean Ambassador to Indonesia, Kwok Fook Seng, held at the KKP office in Jakarta on Friday, November 22, 2024.
Minister Trenggono emphasised the importance of Indonesia’s five blue economy programs, which include expanding marine conservation areas, implementing quota-based measured fishing, promoting sustainable aquatic resource cultivation, managing coastal areas and small islands, and reducing marine plastic waste. “We are genuinely determined to carry out the five blue economy programs, and Mr. Ambassador of Singapore will collaborate with Indonesia in various fields,” he stated.
The cooperation comes as Indonesia continues efforts to advance its fishery sector. Last year, Indonesia exported marine products worth USD 113.4 million to Singapore. To further sustain this sector, the KKP is implementing initiatives such as revitalising idle fish farming ponds and promoting aquaculture of high-value export commodities like shrimp, seaweed, lobsters, and tilapia. The global market value of tilapia alone is projected to grow from USD 14.46 billion in 2024 to USD 23.02 billion by 2034.
Trenggono also highlighted ongoing efforts to protect Indonesia’s marine ecosystem through coral reef rehabilitation, submarine infrastructure management, and marine plastic waste cleanup. These initiatives aim to balance environmental sustainability with economic growth.
Ambassador Kwok expressed Singapore’s readiness to support Indonesia in these endeavours, particularly in expanding marine conservation zones, enhancing sustainable resource cultivation, and tackling marine plastic waste. He noted that these collaborations would contribute to regional economic growth while preserving the marine ecosystem for future generations.
Source: ANTARA News
