BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Representatives from 11 countries have called for concrete action and cross-border collaboration to address growing ocean degradation and the impacts of climate change on coastal areas and small island states. The call was delivered during the Bali Ocean Days 2026 Conference & Showcase in Jimbaran, Bali, on Friday (30 January 2026).
Held under the theme “Navigating Solutions for a Regenerative Ocean Future”, the forum highlighted the increasing pressure climate change places on fisheries, food security, tourism, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Speakers emphasized that ocean protection and climate adaptation must progress alongside sustainable economic development.
Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Didit Herdiawan Ashaf, said the ocean plays a central role in global efforts to protect nature and combat climate change, but is currently facing multiple threats.
“Our oceans are now facing serious challenges, including rising sea temperatures, increasing acidification, fisheries collapse, and marine pollution,” Didit said.
He outlined Indonesia’s five priority blue economy programs, which include expanding marine protected areas to cover 30 percent of national waters by 2045, implementing responsible fisheries management, developing sustainable aquaculture, strengthening protection of coastal and small island ecosystems, and involving fishers in reducing marine plastic pollution.
According to Didit, Indonesia has also taken practical steps such as developing 1,000 coastal fishing villages, modernizing 1,500 fishing operations, revitalizing coastal ponds along Java’s northern coast, and establishing integrated aquaculture zones.
Indonesia’s ecological assets were also highlighted, including approximately 3.44 million hectares of mangrove forests, 1.8 million hectares of seagrass meadows, and blue carbon reserves estimated to account for around 17 percent of global blue carbon storage. Despite this, Didit stressed that international cooperation remains essential.
“Indonesia cannot do this alone. We still need strong partnerships to share knowledge, technology, and investment. Together, we can restore our oceans and build a better future for all,” he said.
During the conference, Indonesia also announced plans to host the Ocean Impact Summit on 8–9 June 2026. The summit is expected to bring together global leaders, business figures, and marine stakeholders to advance collective solutions for ocean sustainability.