FIO's Deep Engagement in Community Activities in Indonesia: Mangrove Conservation and Restoration 

From September 22-27, the FIO delegation coordinated with Jenderal Soedirman University and organized a series of activities on mangrove conservation and restoration in Indonesian communities and schools.

The FIO delegation had in-depth discussions with local administrative staff on mangrove planting, ecological restoration technologies, environmental-protection awareness and development of ecological products in the mangrove communities in Cilacap, Central Java, Indonesia. Through field investigation and communication, the research team learned about the current challenges faced by the local mangrove forests, including the continuous shrinkage of mangrove area, factory effluent and aquaculture pollution and other environmental problems, which have a direct impact on the livelihood of local residents.

To support the sustainable development of local communities, the FIO delegation and representatives of UNSOED and mangrove communities discussed about multi-community collaboration on mangrove protection including data sharing, planting and seedling cultivation technologies and joint development of ecotourism. The FIO delegation shared China’s experience and technical protocols in mangrove planting and FIO’s experience in conducting nature education within mangrove communities. Representatives from different mangrove communities in Indonesia introduced mangrove protection efforts and support from Indonesian government and NOGs. Given that mangrove conservation in Indonesia primarily relies on community-led initiatives, all parties engaged in in-depth discussions and unanimously agreed on the need to encourage governments to implement or participate in mangrove protection projects and provide training on mangrove planting for local residents. These measures aim to raise public awareness of environmental protection, intensify mangrove planting efforts, improve mangrove restoration capabilities, promote the healthy development of mangrove ecotourism, and ultimately enhance the economic conditions of the communities, creating a more livable environment for local residents.

Field trip in Indonesia

Discussion with different mangrove communities

Group photo

From September 23-25, the FIO delegation presented the successful case of mangrove product development (such as tea and fruits) in mangrove communities of Guangdong, China supported by FIO’s technical expertise, to relevant Indonesian mangrove communities at the Community Services of Mangrove Conservation Program Workshop held in Cilacap City. These examples provided valuable references for the development of local ecological products. Such technical exchanges and experience sharing are instrumental in enhancing Indonesia's capacity for mangrove conservation and utilization, thereby promoting sustainable economic development in the region.

Experts of FIO donate manuals on mangrove ecological restoration to the Indonesian communities

The FIO delegation conducted science outreach activities at a mangrove school in Cilacap City, delivering nature-themed presentations for local elementary school students. They also carried out questionnaire surveys to assess the students' understanding of mangrove conservation and distributed science pamphlets and stationery supplies. Additionally, the delegation organized lecture sessions specifically for graduate students at UNSOED. These initiatives not only disseminated environmental knowledge but also fostered awareness and enthusiasm for ecological protection among the younger generation, contributing to Indonesia's sustainable development through scientific and technological collaboration.

Experts of FIO deliver science popularization lectures to students and donate stationery supplies

At the Wanawiyata mangrove community, Researcher WEI Zexun, Secretary of the CPC FIO Committee and Deputy Director General of FIO, participated in relevant community activities. He emphasized that mangrove conservation is crucial for maintaining regional ecosystem stability and preserving biodiversity, expressing his willingness to engage in in-depth collaboration with Indonesian communities on mangrove protection and restoration. He stated that scientific methods should be employed to safeguard mangroves, promote blue carbon sequestration, and advance the blue economy. He also presented the Mangrove Demonstration Family Award to Mr. Wahyono, an outstanding community resident representative.

Researcher LI Li, Director of the International Cooperation Department of FIO, and Associate Researcher CONG Bolin from the Marine Ecology Research Center of FIO presented the community with science pamphlets on mangrove planting, written in Indonesian, as well as commemorative gifts. Professor Elly, Director of the Institute Research and Community Services at UNSOED, also attended the event. She expressed gratitude for the valuable technical assistance provided by FIO in the field of mangrove conservation and looked forward to making significant contributions to improving the local ecological environment and promoting sustainable development through long-term, in-depth cooperation and exchange in mangrove conservation between the two parties.

Mr. Wahyono provided a detailed overview of the changes in the local mangrove ecosystem. He pointed out that mangroves are currently facing severe challenges, such as a sharp decline in area and increasing environmental pollution. On behalf of all community residents, he extended sincere thanks to FIO and UNSOED for their technical support, expressing firm belief that these measures would strongly facilitate the restoration and rehabilitation of the local ecological environment.

WEI Zexun presents Mangrove Conservation Demonstration Family plaque to residents of the Wanawiyata community

On-site community activities

The series of community activities on mangrove conservation and restoration organized by FIO in Indonesian mangrove communities serve as concrete measures to implement the cooperation agreement between FIO and INSOED. Through technical exchanges, science education, and collaborative demonstrations, these initiatives have laid a solid foundation for long-term cooperation between the two countries in the field of mangrove protection. In the future, FIO will continue to deepen its close collaboration with Indonesia in mangrove conservation and restoration, contributing to the advancement of the China-ASEAN Blue Partnership and the building of a maritime community with a shared future.