Environment Minister Calls for 'Ecological Repentance' Through Mangrove Rehabilitation

Indonesia's Minister of Environment, Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat, has initiated a national "ecological repentance" program centered on mangrove rehabilitation. This strategic effort, planned for the 2026–2028 period, aims to restore degraded ecosystems and enhance coastal resilience across the archipelago. The initiative places environmental carrying capacity at the core of future national development policies.

"All parties need to repent, not just the government and corporations, but also the community," Minister Jumhur stated following a mangrove planting event in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara. The Ministry of Environment emphasizes that rapid economic growth should no longer compromise environmental sustainability. Instead, economic development must be balanced with stringent environmental protection to ensure inclusive, long-term prosperity.

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the critical state of Indonesia's mangrove forests. According to ministry data, about 30 percent, or approximately 700,000 hectares, of Indonesia's total 3.4 million hectares of mangrove forests have suffered degradation due to land conversion and industrial pressures. The government is accelerating various rehabilitation efforts to restore these vital coastal ecosystems.

Minister Jumhur highlighted that mangrove forest restoration not only benefits local ecosystems but also significantly contributes to global climate change mitigation. Mangroves possess a carbon emission absorption capacity four to five times greater than ordinary trees, making rehabilitation efforts crucial for their sustainability. Restoring these coastal ecosystems is viewed as a vital long-term investment for the safety of coastal communities' living spaces, as mangroves act as natural green infrastructure and protective barriers against erosion, high waves, and seawater intrusion. Furthermore, healthy mangrove ecosystems are critical spawning grounds for marine life, directly supporting the livelihoods of traditional fishermen and local communities.