Jakarta (Indonesia Window) – The blue economy cooperation has the potential to reach 27 billion U.S. dollars to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provide 7 million jobs, according to the World Bank’s repot in 2021.

The blue economy also supports sustainable development and the principle of inclusiveness in providing welfare for all people.

"Indonesia needs to map its national interests in ASEAN in the context of the blue economy, including within the framework of ASEAN cooperation with Dialogue Partners," the Director General for ASEAN Cooperation at the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sidharto R Suryodipuro, said in his opening remarks at an online Focus Group Discussion themed Opportunities and Challenges For Indonesia in the ASEAN-Dialogue Partner on Blue Economy Cooperation on Tuesday (Nov. 31).

The event was held in Batam city, Riau Islands province on November 30 – December 1, 2021.

He added that the purpose of the FGD was to explore Indonesia's opportunities and challenges in blue economy cooperation in welcoming the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023.

On the same occasion, the Vice Governor of the Riau Islands, Marlin Agustina, highlighted the importance of Indonesia's coastal areas, including the Riau Islands, in advancing blue economy cooperation for the welfare of the local people.

"The marine potential of the Riau Islands is abundant, but only a small part of it has been exploited. Only 1.8 percent of the Riau Islands' economy comes from the fisheries sector," she said.

"We hope supports from all stakeholders to restore the economy and develop Riau Islands for the people’s welfare," Marlin said.

The FGD which was held in a hybrid manner resulted in recommendations for regional cooperation in the blue economy between ASEAN and Dialogue Partners to strengthen connectivity, research and technology, besides increasing the capacity of fisheries and marine resources.

Another recommendation is that Indonesia be a pioneer in setting up regional action plans related to blue economic cooperation in the region which is also expected to be one of the achievements of Indonesia's Chair in ASEAN in 2023.

Reporting by Indonesia Window