CTC recently convened its inaugural Scientific Advisory and Experts Meeting on April 3-4, 2024. The primary objective was to facilitate focused discussions on coral reef health, socioeconomic monitoring, and blue carbon ecosystems. This gathering aimed to garner insights from advisory board members and experts to effectively operationalize CTC’s vision for interdisciplinary and equitable programs outlined in its upcoming five-year strategic plan, slated to commence in 2025.

Distinguished scientists and advisors representing various pertinent disciplines were invited to contribute their expertise, encompassing ecology, biology, blue carbon, economics, social sciences, gender equality, and social inclusion. Notable attendees included Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, Prof. Dr. Ir. Luky Adrianto, Dr. Suseno Sukoyono, Dr. Rodney Salm, Dr. Dedi S. Adhuri, Prof. Dr. Daniel Murdiyarso, Dr. Andreas A. Hutahaean, Prof. Dr. Pramaditya Wicaksono, Dr. Lisa Becking, Dr. Ria Fitriana, Dr. Benjamin Brown, and Dr. Dominic Bryant.

Employing a blend of methodologies such as presentations, panels, and small-group discussions spanning two days, the meeting yielded specific, actionable recommendations tailored to CTC’s ongoing endeavors within the Coral Triangle region.

CTC actively sought feedback on expanding existing training, outreach, and field projects within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Other Effective Conservation Measures (OECMs), prioritizing a holistic, equitable, and inclusive approach. 

“I have a big hope that CTC can empower the provincial government to step in to really run these marine protected areas. Not only as a formality to have on the map, but to ensure that effective management is in place, so the community can benefit from this better, healthy, marine protected area. I think CTC can provide technical support, and also encourage the other stakeholders.” said Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa.

Additionally, expert insights were sought on selecting future coral reef health monitoring methodologies and ensuring that resultant data can inform policy and management decisions effectively. Notably, advice on key socioeconomic indicators was also solicited, aligning with CTC’s plans for greater integration of social science into ecological monitoring initiatives.

“I believe Coral Triangle Center has been playing an important role in how to make inclusive MPA’s, for the ocean of Indonesia. The text “Inspiring People Saving Oceans” is really connected with their DNA: CTC is the ocean, and the people.” said Prof. Dr. Ir. Luky Adrianto.

Apart from the expert insights, the event yielded actionable recommendations that can be integrated into CTC’s upcoming 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, encompassing coral reef health monitoring protocols, socioeconomic indicators, blue carbon initiatives, and strategies for enhancing inclusivity, equity, and diversity within CTC’s existing programs.

“What makes the Coral Triangle unique is an incredibly high biodiversity. It’s important to really stress how amazing, unique and beautiful this biodiversity is. This is where the Coral Triangle Center comes in: with all their work on education, CTC is an organisation that really inspires enthusiasm, and therefore caring, for these coral reefs.” said Dr. Lisa Becking.

Writers: Leilani Gallardo, Casper Kuijper
Photos: Adam Putra/CTC