The Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action Phase II (ATSEA-2) Project concluded its five-year journey with a series of strategic meetings in Bali, Indonesia, from 10 to 11 December 2024. Hosted by the Indonesia Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF), these gatherings included the final Regional Steering Committee (RSC) Meeting, the inaugural Regional Coordination Committee (RCC) Meeting, and the first Regional Stakeholder Working Group (RSWG) Meeting. Together, these events marked the transition from a project-based collaboration to a long-term ATSEA regional collaboration.
The meetings followed the Arafura and Timor Seas Ministerial Forum held on 5 December 2024 in Sydney, where ministers from Australia, H.E. Tanya Plibersek MP; Indonesia, H. E Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, and Papua New Guinea (PNG); H.E Jelta Wong convened in Sydney Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea signed the Sydney Ministerial Declaration. This declaration reaffirmed their commitment to transboundary collaboration and sustainable blue economic development. The signing of the Sydney Declaration was the formal launch of the ATSEA Regional Governance Mechanism, the adoption of the 10-year Strategic Action Programme (SAP) 2024-2033, and the Financial Strategies and Plan.
The Regional Steering Committee (RSC): Reflecting on Achievements
The final gathering of the RSC celebrated the accomplishments of ATSEA-2 and outlined a roadmap for its conclusion. In Indonesia, significant milestones included the establishment of more than 350,000-hectare Kolepom Island’s new Marine Protected Area (MPA) and the implementation of the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) in Aru and Merauke. These efforts were supported by community-based surveillance groups (Pokmaswas) to combat illegal fishing and climate resilience programmes that empowered over 1,000 beneficiaries, particularly women, through alternative livelihoods. Additionally, ATSEA-2 has effectively fostered collaboration among local stakeholders, including the establishment of women-led community groups and the provision of support for alternative livelihood development. The project has also ensured sustainability by bridging local authorities with the private sector, strengthening coastal communities in Rote Ndao and securing the project’s enduring legacy.
Papua New Guinea advanced fisheries management by legalising the Kiwai Local Law Government (LLG) on the Fore Coast Artisanal Fisheries Management Plan in South Fly, achieving compliance in 65% of artisanal gill nets. The country formalised a USD 65,000 financial commitment for the RGM during the transition period and contributed to the Regional EAFM Plan for Red Snapper.
In Timor-Leste, improved management effectiveness of Nino Konis Santana National Park, a final proposal for the establishment of new MPA Manufahi-Manatuto, and improved community livelihood related to ICM implementation in Barique. In addition, community-led sea turtle conservation initiatives blended ecotourism with livelihood support, while climate adaptation programs trained over 1,800 participants to enhance resilience.
Australia demonstrated its commitment by allocating approximately AUD 1.4 million to address abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), a major threat to marine ecosystems. The country also emphasised synergies with the Coral Triangle Initiative to enhance regional conservation efforts.
Dr. I Nyoman Radiarta, the Head of the Agency for Marine and Fisheries Extension and Human Resource Development at Indonesian MMAF praised these achievements during his opening remarks, stating, “This forum ensures that new governance mechanisms address transboundary challenges effectively while promoting sustainable development in the Arafura and Timor Seas.” Reflecting on the programme’s legacy, Iwan Kurniawan, Natural Resource Management Program Manager at UNDP Indonesia, added, “The transition to a long-term Regional Governance Mechanism (RGM) is crucial for sustaining these collaborative efforts beyond ATSEA-2.”
The Regional Coordination Committee (RCC): A New Oversight Body
The RCC, established to oversee the implementation of the Arafura and Timor Seas Strategic Action Programme (ATS SAP) 2024–2033, convened for the first time during the Bali meetings. This inaugural session marked a critical step in aligning regional strategies, promoting cooperation, and mobilising resources for sustainable development.
At the meeting, key decisions were made, including the adoption of the RCC Terms of Reference, which outlined the governance structure and decision-making processes for the committee. Indonesia reaffirmed its leadership by committing to host the Regional Secretariat in Bali during the transition phase. Meanwhile, Australia pledged AUD 620,000 to support the initial implementation of the ATS SAP.
A significant outcome of the RCC Meeting was the appointment of Dr. Handoko Adi Susanto, Regional Project Manager of ATSEA-2, as Interim Executive Director of the Regional Secretariat for 2025. His leadership will ensure a smooth transition to a clearer long-term regional governance framework as well as effective implementation of ATS SAP. Reflecting on this responsibility, Dr. Susanto stated, “The lessons learned over the past five years will guide us as we move toward greater achievements. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for the Arafura and Timor Seas.”
The Regional Stakeholder Working Group (RSWG): Facilitating Inclusive Participation
The RSWG complements the RCC by engaging a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives from governments, NGOs, academia, and the private sector. As a multi-sectoral platform, the RSWG ensures that inclusive participation informs decision-making and addresses regional challenges collaboratively.
At its first meeting, discussions focused on formalising its membership and adopting its Terms of Reference, which outline the RSWG’s roles in providing technical and strategic advice, supporting SAP implementation, and fostering cross-sector collaboration. Members emphasised the importance of aligning national policies with the SAP and integrating surveillance activities into SAP priorities, particularly for monitoring marine pollution and biodiversity conservation.
Dr. Hendra Yusran Siry, Senior Adviser to the Minister on Ecology and Marine Resources Affairs, underscored the RSWG’s importance, stating, “The RSWG is designed to ensure that governance is inclusive and participatory, drawing on diverse expertise to drive forward the objectives of the ATS SAP.”
The RSWG also began planning activities for 2025, including supporting the operationalisation of the RGM, advancing the ALDFG work plan, and enhancing monitoring and knowledge-sharing mechanisms. The meeting agreed to elect a Chair and Co-Chair at the next RSWG Meeting in March 2025, ensuring strong leadership to guide the group’s efforts.
Transitioning to the Regional Governance Mechanism (RGM): A Legacy of Collaboration for the Future
The establishment of the Regional Governance Mechanism (RGM) formalised the integration of the RCC, RSWG, and a Regional Secretariat into a unified framework. This marks a significant transition from project-based collaboration under ATSEA-2 to a long-term governance model designed to sustain and build on the project’s successes. Indonesia will host the ATSEA Regional Secretariat, with interim leadership, ensuring continuity in implementing the ATS SAP 2024–2033.
Despite the progress made, the meetings highlighted challenges, including the need for sustained funding and momentum post-ATSEA-2. The ATS countries committed to optimising unspent funds and prioritising resource mobilisation to support the SAP’s long-term implementation. Dr. Andrew Chek of Australia emphasised the importance of balancing resources, stating, “We need to strike a balance between a lean secretariat and having enough staff to service the work needed. Understanding funding gaps and allocations is crucial for operationalising the RGM effectively.”
As ATSEA-2 concludes on 31 December 2024, its legacy of regional collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices will endure under the RGM. Guided by the ATS SAP 2024–2033, the region is well-positioned to achieve its vision of thriving ecosystems and resilient communities. The conclusion of ATSEA-2 underscores the strength of regional partnerships and the critical importance of collaboration in addressing transboundary challenges. As the region embarks on this new chapter, its countries remain united in their mission to protect shared waters and foster prosperity for future generations.
By Stella Yovita Arya Puteri