On July 2, 2024, the RPOA-IUU Secretariat had the honor of participating in the 16th ASEAN Fisheries Consultative Forum (AFCF) in Penang, Malaysia. This gathering brought together member countries to discuss and share updates on key issues critical to the sustainability of regional fisheries. Topics included 1). Fishing Capacity and Zoning System, 2). Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries, 3). Resource Rehabilitation and Enhancement, 4). Impacts of Climate Change on Fisheries and Aquaculture, 5).Combating IUU Fishing, 6) Traceability of Fisheries and Aquaculture Products, dan 8). US Marine Mammals Protection Act.
One of the significant outcomes of the AFCF meeting was the reinforced emphasis on strengthening regional cooperation initiatives to combat IUU fishing. Collaborative efforts between RPOA-IUU, AN-IUU, and SEAFDEC were highlighted as essential and are expected to be implemented through both virtual and in-person meetings.
As the host of the RPOA-IUU Secretariat, Indonesia was invited to present its ongoing and upcoming priority programs for 2024 and beyond. Indonesia’s presentation showcased key initiatives such as the Data Sharing Mechanism, the Fisheries Intelligence Network, measures to promote decent work on fishing vessels and in the seafood industry, and plans for regional capacity building.
The presentation received a warm response from Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia, who expressed their appreciation for the progress made by RPOA-IUU in combating IUU fishing. Vietnam, in particular, showed keen interest in participating in activities promoting decent work on fishing vessels and in the seafood industry. Thailand, as the Secretariat of the MCS sub-regional of the Gulf of Thailand, also shared insights from their recent meeting held on June 20, 2024, which was attended by Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
In addition to the regional updates, Indonesia provided an overview of its national efforts to combat IUU fishing, further emphasizing its commitment to sustainable fisheries management.
The AFCF meeting marked a significant step forward in fostering regional cooperation and enhancing efforts to combat IUU fishing. Through shared initiatives and strengthened partnerships, ASEAN member countries are poised to ensure sustainable and responsible fisheries practices across the region.
