Indonesia designates 162,874 hectares in Papua as marine conservation area

The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has designated the Maksegara waters—comprising Makbon, Selemkai, Mega, and Moraid in Sorong and Tambrauw Regencies, Southwest Papua—as a marine conservation area. Covering approximately 162,874 hectares, the area features critical ecosystems including coral reefs and seagrass beds, serving as habitats for protected species such as sea turtles and dugongs.

This designation aims to strengthen marine ecosystem protection and ensure the sustainable use of marine and fishery resources for coastal communities. Indonesia has set a target to protect 30 percent of its waters, or roughly 97.5 million hectares, by 2045 through effective management and community involvement.

In a separate discussion hosted by the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), economic experts emphasized that marine potential must be effectively transformed into public prosperity. Dr. Jaharuddin noted that high marine resource potential does not automatically equate to economic value, income, or the welfare of fishermen and coastal residents, highlighting the need for mechanisms that ensure equitable distribution of economic benefits.