Indonesia is an archipelagic country with vast ocean waters. Its ocean area covers 6.4 million km², or around 75% of Indonesia’s total area, which amounts to 8.3 million km². The country consists of 16,671 islands, with a coastline length of 108,000 km.
The great potential of its ocean economy is not fully utilized. In 2014, the ocean economy contributed only 22% to the National Gross Domestic Product (GDP). When compared with other countries, Indonesia’s ocean-based economy is relatively small. For instance, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, the Maldives, Norway, and Iceland have an average ocean economy contribution to GDP of more than 30%.
A traditional boat was sailing through Ternate waters in North Maluku
Credit: Ady Candra / Shutterstock.com
This presents a challenge for Indonesia to optimize its ocean potential for national prosperity. Among 11 ocean sectors, only three are actively managed: fishing, aquaculture, and fish processing. Meanwhile, marine biotechnology, mining, tourism, transportation, ocean industry services, coastal forestry, small island resources, and non-conventional resources have not been optimally managed.
Despite its abundant ocean and coastal resources, Indonesia faces a high risk of natural disasters along its coastal areas. Therefore, sustainable management is essential for optimizing coastal and ocean resources in Indonesia.
A moored basin of Prigi Fishing Port in Central Java
Credit: Ady Candra / Shutterstock.com
