The health of our oceans is crucial for the well-being of countless communities and ecosystems. The Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action Phase II (ATSEA-2) Project has been at the forefront of this mission, working to support the enhancement of marine and fisheries governance in Indonesia. A collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), this initiative has been making significant strides since its inception in 2020. As the project nears its conclusion in December 2024, a series of exit strategy workshops have been conducted to ensure the sustainability of its achievements.

Rote Ndao District

The first of these workshops took place on 23 October 2023 in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). This workshop was integral to ensuring the sustainability of the project’s accomplishments as it nears the conclusion of its implementation phase. The event brought together local government officials, community leaders, academic representatives, and other stakeholders.

The consultation’s main goal was to identify priority activities to continue after the program’s conclusion and ensure the effective use of resources across various government levels. Discussions centred on extending the program’s reach into additional districts surrounding the Timor Sea, aiming to implement a broader, more effective approach to marine and fisheries management.

A key aspect of the meeting was the collective push for strategic actions to ensure ongoing support from both the central government and external donors. This support is deemed essential for maintaining and expanding the program’s initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a strong consensus on several recommendations for future programs and activities, which will be forwarded to the provincial government for implementation. These recommendations are intended to integrate into future phases of the ATSEA program, focusing on sustainable marine and fisheries management.

These activities are intended to catalyse sustainable development in the marine and fisheries sector in Rote Ndao. Continued support and sustainable funding are vital for maintaining the program’s benefits and enhancing marine ecosystem governance at both national and local levels.

Merauke District

Continuing the series, on 25 April 2024, a technical consultation workshop on the exit strategy for the ATSEA-2 Project was held in Merauke, South Papua Province. Local government officials, community groups, academia, and private sector representatives came together to ensure the project’s sustainability.

A standout achievement from this workshop was the establishment of the Kolepom Island Marine Protected Area (MPA). This included biodiversity assessments, public consultations, zoning plans and preparation of an academic manuscript for the Ministerial Decree. Local communities were also trained to manage conservation efforts effectively.

Additionally, the workshop focused on reducing IUU fishing through a Fisheries Crime Forum in South Papua. This forum brings together enforcement agencies to enhance surveillance and legal measures. Two community-based surveillance groups (Kelompok Masyarakat Pengawas/Pokmaswas) were formed to monitor and report IUU activities, with local fishers receiving training on handling protected marine species.

Supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in fisheries was another key focus. Training on marketing and financial literacy was provided to improve their operations, alongside technical assistance for sustainable practices. The program also collaborated with local agencies, including the Merauke Cooperative and SME Office and the Fisheries Office, to provide comprehensive support to SMEs.

The workshop also emphasised coordination and capacity building. Efforts were made to harmonise vessel registration and fisheries oversight programs, strengthen Special Use Occupancy Permit (SUOP) capacities, and integrate conservation area management plans with existing wildlife reserve plans. Sustained collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for the long-term success of conservation and fisheries management initiatives.

Aru Archipelago District

On 6 June 2024, a similar workshop was also held in Dobo, Aru Archipelago. The workshop brought together representatives from various stakeholders, including local government officials, academia, the private sector and community groups.

Significant contributions to sustainable red snapper and shrimp fisheries were highlighted, including updated fishery profiles and technical training. Efforts also included improving the management of the Southeast Aru MPA through zoning outreach and biodiversity monitoring. The creation of an Atlas of Biodiversity was a notable achievement.

The workshop emphasised continued community engagement and support for anti-IUU fishing measures. Gender equality was promoted through the establishment of the Women’s Indigenous Group in Lutur Village (Nata Lutur), aiming for inclusive development outcomes.

Dr Johan Gonga, District Head of the Aru Archipelago, remarked, “Our marine resources are sources of life that must be managed responsibly to ensure public prosperity and sustainability.” He further stressed the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts, stating that the management of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Southeast Aru should continue to involve local communities, “especially to harmonise with community protection areas to strengthen their conservation efforts,” he added.

The ATSEA-2 Project has laid a strong foundation for sustainable marine and fisheries management in Indonesia. The recent workshops in project working areas in Indonesia show the critical need for a comprehensive exit strategy to maintain and build upon these achievements. With continued support and collaboration, the initiatives started by the collaborative effort among various stakeholders through the ATSEA-2 Project can lead to long-lasting benefits for the environment and local communities in the region.

The success of the project, including exit strategy workshops, would not have been possible without the active participation and support of the local government, community groups, UNDP Indonesia, and various other stakeholders. Their commitment to sustainable development and conservation continues to drive positive change in Indonesia.

By Stella Puteri and Yulia Dewi