Indonesia and WWF Join Forces to Promote Sustainable Fisheries
In a groundbreaking partnership, Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has forged an alliance with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Indonesia to bolster the nation’s position in the marine and fishery industry. The primary goal of this collaboration is to enhance awareness about sustainable fishery practices among the general public, aiming to elevate Indonesia’s competitiveness in the global market.
The ministry’s Director General of Strengthening the Competitiveness of Marine and Fishery Products, Budi Sulistiyo, expressed his enthusiasm for this joint endeavor, emphasizing its alignment with the government’s vision for a sustainable and thriving fishery sector. By signing this agreement, both parties anticipate a substantial impact on fishery stakeholders, particularly those operating on a micro and small scale.
Through a series of strategic initiatives, the partnership aims to fortify access to market standards for sustainable fishery products and launch an extensive awareness campaign on responsible consumption choices. This multifaceted approach underscores the crucial role of consumers in supporting sustainable fisheries, emphasizing the ripple effect of individual choices on the broader ecosystem.
Empowering Business Actors through Capacity-Building
One of the key highlights of this collaboration is the focus on capacity-building and competence enhancement among business actors involved in the fishery sector. By providing coaching and mentoring activities, the partnership seeks to equip these stakeholders with the necessary skills to meet traceability and sustainability standards for fishery products. This hands-on support not only elevates the quality of Indonesian fishery products but also fosters a culture of responsible business practices within the industry.
Additionally, the agreement includes provisions to assist fishery players in meeting stringent export requirements, such as those for exporting shrimp to the United States. By addressing regulatory hurdles and developing sustainable livelihood programs for fishermen and fish farmers, the collaboration aims to create a more robust and resilient fishery sector that can thrive in the international market.
Promoting Ecosystem Health and Global Recognition
WWF Indonesia representative, Dewi Lestari Yani Rizki, underscored the critical role of multi-stakeholder engagement in preserving a healthy marine ecosystem. By bringing together various parties, this collaboration sets the stage for the implementation of best practices in fisheries management, ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources.
Furthermore, Rizki highlighted the significance of this partnership in elevating the reputation of Indonesian fishery products on the global stage. By promoting them as high-quality and sustainable offerings, the collaboration aims to secure greater recognition and market access for Indonesian fishery products, positioning them as desirable commodities in international trade.
The cooperation agreement is set to span from 2025 to 2030, with provisions for annual evaluations and possible extensions based on performance metrics. This long-term commitment underscores the dedication of both parties to fostering a sustainable and competitive fishery sector that prioritizes environmental conservation and responsible business practices.
As Indonesia and WWF embark on this transformative journey towards sustainable fisheries, the impact of their partnership is poised to reverberate across the industry, setting a new standard for ethical and environmentally conscious practices. Through collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment to marine conservation, they pave the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for Indonesia’s fishery sector.
