The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) will regulate conservation areas to prohibit access and passage by ships, supporting Indonesia's blue economy. This initiative will be connected with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, emphasized this at United in Diversity (UID) Bali Campus in Denpasar, Bali, on May 19, 2024. According to the Indonesian Center for Environmental Studies, the blue economy, also known as the marine or maritime economy, refers to the sustainable utilization of marine resources to boost the economy, improve community welfare, and maintain marine ecosystem health. Trenggono highlighted that protecting conservation areas is critical, as they serve as carbon sinks, oxygen producers, and natural spawning grounds. Strengthening regulations is a priority. Trenggono, a former Deputy Minister of Defense, noted that policies would gradually reduce fishing areas, stressing the importance of aquaculture to ensure high-quality, accountable protein sources for humans. KKP will also monitor coastal areas and small islands, balancing ecological and economic interests, including marine tourism.
Blended finance is another key action in the five blue economy policies. Although the exact figures are unknown, efforts will continue, including the Blue Halo S program, supported by Konservasi Indonesia (KI) and other partners. Senior Vice President and Executive Chair of KI, Meizani Irmadhiany, explained that Blue Halo S aims to create a funding system for managing conservation areas and the blue economy, focusing on Fisheries Management Area (WPP) 572 across six provinces from Aceh to Banten. These areas are vital for both fisheries and biodiversity, currently featuring around 2% conservation coverage, with a government target to increase it to 30%. Funding is needed for both conservation and the blue economy, with initial funding targets of over USD 60 million in grants, potentially expanding to USD 200-300 million in financial facilities. KI has launched the Blue Intelligence Resource Unit (BIRU) to support blue economy initiatives and conservation efforts in Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific. BIRU will serve as a hub for promoting conservation programs and supporting government Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will be based in Kura-kura Bali, providing information on conservation through online and offline platforms, including the MAP CLUB app for knowledge sharing and donations.
