In Memoriam

Dr. Wijoprino (16 June 1960 – 8 November 2021)

Dr. Wijopriono was a senior researcher at the Centre for Fisheries Research (CFR) in the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF). He had both a Master’s in aquatic resource management and a doctoral degree in applied remote sensing from the University of Putra Malaysia.  As a researcher with extensive research experience, he conducted and led many studies on fisheries resources – including stock assessments – into small pelagic, demersal fish, squid and prawns.

Dr. Wijopriono was a strong supporter of ATSEA-2. He was the CFR focal point for fisheries-related project activities and the Indonesian Head of Delegation for the last Intersessional Meeting. Together with the Indonesian Institute of Sciences, he coordinated the bioeconomic study for prawns in Fisheries Management Area (FMA) 718 in the Arafura Sea and was the main proponent of fisheries enumeration to better understand the red snapper population status in the region.

From February 2020, his recommendation led to the deployment of fisheries enumerators in two major landing sites in Indonesia, namely Probolinggo in East Java and Merauke in Papua. This was followed by several trips to conduct biological sampling to understand the relation between total length, weight and gonad maturity stages of red snapper. All of these initiatives continue to this day.

In addition to his technical expertise, Dr. Wijopriono was a highly dedicated individual. Despite his struggles with illness during his final months, he still managed to spare time to advise the project, steadfastly encouraging his colleagues to do better and ensuring all activities on the ground were carried out smoothly. Due to his kindness and down-to-earth personality, Dr. Wijopriono was highly respected and will be sorely missed.

Everyone at ATSEA-2 will endeavour to continue his legacy and honour his memory.

Terima kasih banyak, Pak Wijo.