Lack of data has historically been a significant limitation for understanding the marine biodiversity and impacts of human activities. Seizing the opportunity to collect robust oceanography data for the Arafura and Timor Seas (ATS) region, ATSEA-2 Project plans a joint-survey with the Institute of Marine Research and Observation (IMRO) of the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.
On February 24, a preliminary meeting between ATSEA-2 and the Institute of Marine Research and Observation (IMRO) was conducted at ATSEA-2 Regional Secretariat in Denpasar, Bali. IMRO is the technical implementing unit responsible for Indonesia’s marine resources observation and research. The team of researchers from IMRO, consisting of Mrs. Frida Sidik, Mrs. Iis Triyulianti, Mr. Agung Yunanto, Mr. Elvan Ampou, and Mrs. Nuryani Widagti, elaborated a joint survey to collect oceanography data and other data relevant to the project to support the mapping of capture fisheries area and fisheries stock assessment in the ATS region.
ATSEA-2 and IMRO then agreed to strengthen this potential partnership by focusing on monitoring and detecting marine-based pollution and IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) Fishing using satellite observation. On March 18, 2021, ATSEA-2 was invited to be the resource person on the FGD of Marine Resource Observation conducted by IMRO. The FGD collected ideas from the targeted participants for specific themes such as physical, chemistry, and biology oceanography in the Arafura Sea.
In the near future, this partnership is expected to explore new methods for gathering data using technology solution to support better science and management of Arafura and Timor Seas.
Read also: ATSEA-2 and Partners Reaffirm Commitment for Fisheries Management
(Deti Triani)