The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is on a mission to revolutionize the health, cosmetic, and functional food industries by tapping into Indonesia’s rich marine and fishery resources. Leading this charge is the ministry’s Director General of Marine and Ocean Space Management, Victor Gustaaf Manoppo, who envisions a future where marine biopharmaceuticals take center stage in the country’s pharmaceutical landscape.
Manoppo believes that Indonesia’s abundant marine resources, including spirulina, fish oil, albumin, squalene, and sea cucumber extract, hold the key to unlocking a wealth of biopharmaceutical possibilities. In a recent statement, he emphasized the importance of sustainable utilization practices to ensure that these resources are harnessed responsibly, preserving ecological balance for long-term benefits.
As a member of the Task Force for the Acceleration of Phytopharmaceuticals Development and Utilization, the ministry is actively working to enhance the capacity of biopharmaceutical production in the country. One notable initiative involves the development of microalgae spirulina in Klaten, Central Java, in collaboration with academic institutions, businesses, and local communities. This project aims to bolster the resilience of nature-based drugs and cosmetics while fostering community involvement in the biopharmaceutical supply chain.
Miftahul Huda, the ministry’s Director of Marine Services, underscores the strategic importance of spirulina and phycocyanin in advancing the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. He points out that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have a significant role to play in this sector, driving economic growth through active participation in the supply chain. To facilitate this, the ministry has launched a partnership program that connects MSMEs with large-scale companies in the biopharmaceutical sector, supported by the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM).
In its commitment to strengthening the national biopharmaceutical ecosystem, the ministry is focused on implementing regulatory frameworks, providing business support programs, and fostering collaborations with academic and industry partners. Huda notes that these efforts are in alignment with the vision of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono to promote pharmaceutical self-sufficiency based on Indonesia’s marine resources.
The push for marine biopharmaceuticals is not just a local endeavor—it has global implications. Indonesia is seeking international collaborations in marine conservation efforts, recognizing the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems across borders. Additionally, researchers emphasize the importance of fair climate actions to safeguard coastal communities that rely on marine resources for their livelihoods.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare and industry, the potential of marine biopharmaceuticals is vast and promising. With Indonesia’s commitment to harnessing the power of its marine resources for the greater good, the future of biopharmaceutical innovation looks brighter than ever. As we navigate the complexities of sustainability, economic growth, and global cooperation, one thing is clear: the sea holds secrets that may just hold the key to our collective well-being.
This article was translated by Muhammad Harianto and Raka Adji, edited by Primayanti.
