Ministry inks MoU with IGCN to develop seaweed research center

Indonesia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UN Indonesia Global Compact Network (IGCN) to enhance the development of the International Tropical Seaweed Research Center (ITSRC). This partnership is aimed at advancing seaweed research and development in Indonesia. Here are the key details:

Key Aspects of the MoU:

1. Objective of the MoU:
   • The MoU focuses on accelerating the development of ITSRC, positioning it as a premier center for tropical seaweed research.
   • This initiative aims to harness Indonesia’s diverse tropical seaweed varieties and explore their potential in various applications.
2. Significance of the Collaboration:
   • Firman Hidayat, Deputy for Maritime Resources at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, emphasized the strategic value of the collaboration.
   • The partnership with IGCN leverages its global network to unlock the full potential of Indonesia’s seaweed resources.
3. Scope of the Collaboration:
   • The project will integrate efforts from experts, research institutions, and private sector partners.
   • It aims to develop a comprehensive approach to seaweed cultivation and utilization, covering both upstream and downstream activities.
4. Current Seaweed Production and Utilization:
   • Indonesia is the world’s second-largest seaweed producer, with a vast area suitable for cultivation. However, only about 1% of this area is currently utilized.
   • Most of Indonesia’s seaweed production is in raw or dried form, with significant untapped potential in producing value-added products such as bioplastics and biofuels.
5. Economic Impact:
   • Indonesia’s maritime sector currently contributes 7.9% to the national GDP.
   • The government aims to increase this contribution to 15% by 2045, highlighting the importance of optimizing seaweed production and other maritime activities.
6. Future Goals:
   • The collaboration seeks to enhance seaweed research, increase cultivation areas, and improve the value chain for seaweed products.
   • By boosting seaweed production and processing, Indonesia aims to elevate its position in the global market and contribute significantly to its economic growth.

The MoU marks a significant step in leveraging Indonesia’s seaweed resources for broader economic and environmental benefits, aligning with the country’s strategic maritime development goals.

Overview of the MoU:

1. Purpose of the MoU:
   • The MoU is intended to establish and develop ITSRC as a leading center for tropical seaweed research in Indonesia.
   • This collaboration aims to explore and exploit the diverse seaweed varieties found in Indonesia’s tropical waters.
2. Importance of the Partnership:
   • Firman Hidayat, Deputy for Maritime Resources at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, highlighted the strategic significance of partnering with IGCN.
   • The global network provided by IGCN will facilitate the unlocking of Indonesia’s seaweed potential, given its rich variety and significant growth prospects.
3. Collaborative Efforts:
   • The initiative will involve a broad range of stakeholders including experts, research institutions, and industry players.
   • The goal is to create a fully integrated approach to seaweed research and commercialization, covering everything from cultivation to end-use applications.
4. Current Seaweed Industry Context:
   • Indonesia is the second-largest seaweed producer globally, yet only a small fraction of the potential cultivation area is in use.
   • Seaweed’s potential is high, with applications in bioplastics, biofuels, and other high-value products, but current production primarily results in raw or dried seaweed.
5. Economic and Environmental Goals:
   • The Indonesian government aims to increase the maritime sector’s contribution to the national GDP from 7.9% to 15% by 2045.
   • Expanding seaweed cultivation and enhancing the value chain are key strategies to achieve this target and drive sustainable economic growth.
6. Strategic Impact:
   • By developing ITSRC and improving seaweed industry practices, Indonesia seeks to optimize the economic benefits of its seaweed resources.
   • This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Indonesia’s position in the global seaweed market and enhance its maritime sector’s role in the economy.