VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Indonesia is hosting an international forum again. This time it is the Archipelagic and Island States (AIS) Forum 2023. The forum takes place in Bali on 10-11 October. The AIS Forum 2023 is a forum for Indonesia to contribute ideas regarding solutions to the challenges faced by archipelagic and island countries.

At the ministerial-level meeting held on 10 October 2023, the delegations agreed that solidarity and collaboration are critical to tackling various climate change challenges, especially those affecting the marine sector.

After chairing the 5th Ministerial Meeting of AIS Forum in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Tuesday, the Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi said, that as the largest archipelagic country, Indonesia is trying to be at the forefront of facing common challenges in overcoming climate change; such as sea level rise, marine pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Retno Marsudi said, that the AIS Forum demonstrated the Indonesian leadership commitment and its contribution to archipelagic and island states.

The formation of the AIS Forum cannot be separated by Indonesia's involvement, which initiated the forum along with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Since its inception through the Manado Joint Declaration in 2018, the AIS Forum has regularly held senior official meetings and ministerial meetings annually. The forum involves the participation of 51 archipelagic and island states, regardless of area, size, or level of development.

Another commitment shown by Indonesia is a US$ 5 million funding for sustainable development. Deputy for Maritime Sovereignty and Energy of the Indonesian Coordinating Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Investment, Jodi Mahardi said that, so far, the funding commitment has only come from Indonesia. It is hoped that other countries or international organizations will soon follow suit.

Indonesia's contribution to archipelagic and island states certainly will provide meaningful and significant results with the support of its people, considering that more than 160 million Indonesians live on its coast. Indonesian people should take real action to cope with climate change so that sea levels do not rise further, marine pollution can be reduced, and biodiversity is maintained.

It is hoped that the AIS Forum 2023 will strengthen the solidarity of archipelagic and island countries to jointly encourage the future global governance agenda.