Mangrove ecosystem rehabilitation must absolutely draw attention from all sides. There needs to be synergy between government institutions and stakeholders.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Peatland and Mangrove Restoration Board (BRGM) has set a target of rehabilitating 4,617 hectares of mangroves in Riau Islands province this year.

Riau Islands’ mangroves are spread over an area of 69,042 hectares, and account for 20.84 percent of Indonesia’s mangrove cover of 3,311.207 hectares, BRGM chief Hartono said in a written statement released on Monday.

Riau Islands is playing a significant role in rehabilitating mangroves, he added.

"For Riau Islands, we will focus on 4,617 hectares of mangroves designated by PDASHL (the directorate general of river basin area and protected forest management) in Sei Jang Duriangkang," he said.

At least six community groups in Bintan, Riau Islands could likely get involved in mangrove ecosystem restoration efforts, he added.

The mangrove ecosystem is a wetland resource in coastal areas and a life-buffer system of high value as it provides ecological and biological resources that can absorb carbon and be developed for tourism.

The BRGM chief expressed the hope that the mangrove rehabilitation program would be backed by the provincial, district, and village administrations. The local community is also taking part in mangrove rehabilitation efforts mandated by the President, he said.

The mangroves which will be rehabilitated are critical, and include fish ponds/former fish ponds, eroded mangrove habitats, and appearing or empty land.

"Mangrove ecosystem rehabilitation must absolutely draw attention from all sides. There needs to be synergy between government institutions and stakeholders. Mangrove rehabilitation must also contribute to improving the quality of the environment and the economy of the people," he said while making a working visit to Riau Islands.

Related news: Marine Ministry to get additional budget for mangrove rehabilitation
Related news: Conserve mangroves in tsunami-prone villages, minister




Translator: Subagyo/Suharto
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2021