To strengthen the implementation of sustainable and data-driven fisheries management, Tual Nusantara Fisheries Port (PPN), as the Executive Coordinator of WPPNRI 718, in collaboration with GEF-6 CFI Indonesia and the Directorate of Fisheries Resource Management – DJPT MMAF, organized the Scientific Panel Meeting for WPPNRI 718.

UPP Scientific Panel Meeting for FMA 718, facilitated by GEF-6 CFI Indonesia, was held at Pattimura University, Ambon (August 12–13, 2025)

The two-day event took place at the Rectorate Hall of Pattimura University, Ambon, focusing on two key commodities in WPPNRI 718: squid and shrimp. Both are high-value commodities but require careful management.

Meeting Focus: Developing Science-Based Policy Recommendations

The scientific panel aimed to gather and present the latest data and scientific findings from institutions such as BRIN, universities, and research bodies regarding stock status, management challenges, and the potential of squid and shrimp resources; develop technical recommendations and policy options for science-based catch quota management of squid and shrimp in WPPNRI 718; build and strengthen collaborative networks among Fisheries Management Units (UPP), universities, research institutions, and regional agencies to support effective, adaptive, and collaborative fisheries management.

Participants represented a wide range of sectors, including: Directorate of Fisheries Resource Management (PSDI) – DJPT MMAF, GEF-6 CFI Indonesia PMU, WWF Indonesia, Head of Tual PPN (Executive Coordinator of WPPNRI 718), representatives from Ambon PPN and Ambon PSDKP Station, academics from BRIN and Pattimura University (Ambon), Tual State Fisheries Polytechnic, Musamus University (Merauke), Maluku Provincial Marine Affairs and Fisheries Office, Central Papua, and South Papua, as well as representatives from National Commission for the Study of Fishery Resources

Messages and Expectations from the Organizers

The representative from DJPT MMAF emphasized that quota-based fisheries management—as outlined in the measured fishing policy—can only be effective if supported by accurate and comprehensive scientific data.

The Project Manager of CFI Indonesia GEF 6 attended and delivered a speech at UPP Scientific Panel Meeting for FMA 718, facilitated at Pattimura University, Ambon City (August 12–13, 2025)

Dr. Adipati Rahmat, Project Manager of GEF-6 CFI Indonesia, also attended and delivered remarks. He underlined that this event reflects a strong commitment to translate the blue economy concept into real practices on the ground, particularly through science-based approaches and the active involvement of all stakeholders.

“This scientific panel serves as an important bridge between scientific data and public policy formulation. We hope that the outcomes of this meeting will encourage the issuance of regulations that support sustainable, fair, and future-oriented fisheries management,” he stated.

Next Steps: Technical Recommendation Document

The two-day discussions will be summarized into a technical recommendation document, which will include: stock estimates of squid and shrimp resources in FMA 718, proposed catch quotas and management areas, and mechanisms for data reporting and monitoring.

A collaboration map linking UPP, research institutions, and local governments.

This document will be submitted to DJPT MMAF as an important input for planning and determining measured fishing quotas, particularly in eastern Indonesia.

Shared Commitment to Sustainable Fisheries

Through this event, the government, academia, and development partners reaffirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that fishing practices not only generate economic benefits but also safeguard marine resources for future generations.

The WPPNRI 718 Scientific Panel stands as tangible evidence that Indonesia’s ocean governance is moving toward a more transparent, accountable, and science-based system, in line with the mandates of national marine and fisheries policies.