Dr. Ir. Muhammad Rijal Idrus, an academic from the Faculty of Marine Science at Hasanuddin University, highlighted that South Sulawesi currently holds the highest Blue Economic Index in Indonesia. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, East Java led with an index of around 65% to 67%, but post-pandemic, South Sulawesi surpassed East Java, reaching a 70% index. Rijal emphasized that this high index in South Sulawesi is a potential that must be maintained and developed. However, he pointed out that the maritime industry in South Sulawesi still lags behind Java. As the maritime sector in Java recovers, there is a risk that South Sulawesi's position could decline. Nationally, out of 12 maritime sectors, only two—mining for energy and capture fisheries and aquaculture—are being optimally utilized, according to 2023 data from Bappenas.

To strengthen South Sulawesi’s position as the leader in the Blue Economic Index in Indonesia, efforts should go beyond the management and utilization of the Spermonde Islands in the Makassar Strait. The focus should also include the Wallacea region, which holds significant scientific value and is of global importance. Additionally, the potential for a green economy, as seen in Australia’s successful development of marine tourism generating USD 56 billion (approximately IDR 700 trillion), should be explored to enhance community welfare. Indonesia, with 548 diving spots from Sabang to Merauke, has substantial potential for marine tourism. However, this potential faces threats such as marine plastic waste, which presents a significant challenge to realizing the ocean’s potential as a source of community prosperity. Addressing plastic waste is crucial, as Indonesia ranked second in the world for the most waste in 2010, but by 2023 had dropped to fifth place, thanks to collaborative efforts in addressing this issue.

Source: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/4274647/sulsel-miliki-indeks-ekonomi-biru-tertinggi-di-indonesia