Pontianak ( WNAM MONITORING ): The West Kalimantan government is strengthening collaboration with the central government, businesses, and local communities to protect mangrove ecosystems.
The initiative aims to preserve vital coastal biodiversity while promoting a green economy, Governor Ria Norsan said in Pontianak on Sunday.
“In Mempawah, mangrove cultivation has been a priority for several years, supported by non-government organizations (NGOs) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs from both state-owned and private companies in West Kalimantan,” Norsan said.
West Kalimantan has about 162,000 hectares of mangrove ecosystems spread across seven districts and cities, with Kubu Raya District accounting for nearly 68 percent of the province’s total mangrove coverage.
The area is home to 40 mangrove species, including two globally rare species — Bruguiera hainesii and Kandelia candel. Around 14,000 hectares remain available for potential rehabilitation.
However, threats persist from land conversion for settlements, fish ponds, ports, and illegal logging for charcoal and firewood.
“Education, institutional strengthening, law enforcement, and rehabilitation must go hand in hand,” Norsan emphasized.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol earlier noted that for the past 17 years, Indonesia has lacked a comprehensive national mangrove management plan, despite having 3.4 million hectares — about 20 percent of the world’s total. He urged all stakeholders to adopt targeted measures and halt destructive activities.
Business participation has also been significant. Achmad Ardianto, president director of state-owned miner Antam, reported that by June 2025 the company had planted more than 1.16 million mangrove seedlings across 100 hectares in Southeast Sulawesi, North Maluku, and Southwest Papua. The program also includes training and environmental education for forest farmer groups and coastal communities.
The National Coordination Meeting on Mangrove Ecosystem Management, held in Pontianak on August 8, was expected to serve as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation among stakeholders in safeguarding coastal ecosystems and preserving natural heritage for future generations.
