LRI i-MAR IPB University Leads Archipelagic Sciences of Indonesia Launching

Lembaga Riset Internasional Kemaritiman, Kelautan dan Perikanan (LRI i-MAR) at IPB University led the launch of the Archipelagic Sciences of Indonesia (ASIA) during the opening of the 19th Islands of World Conference held at Mataram University (Unram), Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (6/25).

The event, initiated by i-MAR, was collaboratively organized by the Center for Coastal and Marine Resources Studies (PKSPL) at IPB University, Mataram University, the Archipelagic and Islands States Forum (AIS), and the International Small Islands Studies Association (ISISA).

The event also received full support from the International Collaboration Office (ICO) at IPB University, the Provincial Government of West Nusa Tenggara, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), the Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas, PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara, Rekam Nusantara Foundation, and the Climateworks Centre.

In his introduction to the ASIA launch, the Head of i-MAR IPB University, Prof Luky Adrianto, affirmed, “Indonesia has the DNA as an archipelagic nation that requires transdisciplinary studies on governance and sustainable utilization. Starting from the land system aspect, water systems, and to a broader circle as archipelagic system thinking. What is encompassed in this transdisciplinary study is designated as the Archipelagic Science of Indonesia.”

Present at this meeting was the Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, who fully supported the entire series of events for the 19th Islands of World Conference.

“It is an honour to host this meeting, where thoughts from around the world gather to discuss critical issues facing island communities. This conference serves as a lighthouse for collaboration, fostering dialogue and innovation to address the unique challenges and opportunities in the archipelago,” he said.

Prof Bambang Hari Kusumo, the Rector of Mataram University, warmly welcomed and stated that as the host university, they felt honoured to facilitate this important dialogue among academics, policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders from around the world.

“This conference is evidence of a collective commitment to address the various challenges faced by island communities and to harness the significant opportunities offered,” added Prof Bambang.

The Archipelagic Sciences of Indonesia was collaboratively launched by representatives from IPB University, Pattimura University, Raja Ali Haji Maritime University, and Mataram University in front of more than 500 invitees from 28 countries, coinciding with the opening agenda of the conference.

This event was officially opened by Drs Victor Gustaaf Manoppo MH, Director General of the Marine and Coastal Area Management at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP). The launching was also witnessed by the President of ISISA, Prof Laurie Brinklow from the University of Prince Edward Islands (UPEI), Canada; the entire executive committee of ISISA; the Head of PKSPL at IPB University, Prof Yonvitner; and the academic community of IPB University and Unram.

The launching was followed by a five-day conference that discussed the latest research on climate change, blue economy, small island management, and island and archipelago culture. (DY/Rz) (IAAS/EXC)