SEAFDEC serves as a strategic partner for Indonesia, particularly in the areas of human resource development and fisheries policy across Southeast Asia. With a shared vision to promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture for food security, poverty alleviation, and improved livelihoods in the region, SEAFDEC provides a collaborative platform for its member countries.
Indonesia’s involvement in SEAFDEC activities—including hosting the Inland Fisheries Resources Development and Management Department (IFRDMD) in Palembang—demonstrates its leadership in advancing inland fisheries management. Through IFRDMD, Indonesia has actively participated in research and training initiatives in various provinces, contributing to the development of scientifically sound and regionally aligned fisheries policies.
At the recent 57th SEAFDEC Council Meeting, held from 20 to 22 May 2025 in Singapore, Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to shaping regional strategies and policies—particularly in combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, adapting to climate change, and advancing innovation and technology in fisheries. These priorities underscore Indonesia’s strategic interest in influencing regional decision-making that directly affects its fishers, industries, and marine conservation efforts.
On 3 June 2025, during a press conference themed “Strengthening Human Resources in Marine and Fisheries: Indonesia Expands Maritime Diplomacy”, Dr. I Nyoman Radiarta—Director General of the Agency of the Human Resources Development and Fisheries Extension of Marine and Fisheries and SEAFDEC Alternate Council Director for Indonesia—stated that this partnership is more than a diplomatic symbol. “It is a bridge of knowledge, opening access for Indonesia’s young maritime generation to learn, grow, and contribute on the global stage,” he emphasized in front of national media representatives.
Through SEAFDEC, Indonesia has also been able to promote its flagship policies, including Blue Economy initiatives, sustainable inland and coastal ecosystem conservation, environmentally friendly aquaculture, and quota-based measured fishing. This collaboration enhances knowledge sharing, institutional capacity, and technical cooperation—key elements for the long-term governance of Indonesia’s fisheries sector.
During the occasion, the Chief of SEAFDEC/IFRDMD also introduced the organization’s vision, mission, and strategic direction as outlined in the Resolution and Plan of Action on Sustainable Fisheries for Food Security for the ASEAN Region Towards 2030 (RES&POA 2030). This document reflects the commitment of Southeast Asian countries to achieve sustainable, equitable, and inclusive fisheries management.
As Southeast Asia faces increasing environmental and socio-economic challenges, Indonesia’s proactive engagement in SEAFDEC demonstrates a forward-looking approach that not only advances national interests but also contributes to strengthening regional resilience in the fisheries sector.