United States and Indonesia have agreed to protect coral reef ecosystems

Indonesia hosts 16% of the world's coral reef areas and approximately 60% of global coral species. Coral reefs provide food, livelihoods, and storm protection for half of the world's population, yet about 75% of coral reefs worldwide are threatened. 

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Through strong bilateral relations, the United States supports Indonesia's commitment to protect its coral reefs under the Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Act (TFCCA). This landmark agreement focusing on coral ecosystems marks a significant step in preserving biodiversity in Indonesia, one of the world's most dynamic marine environments.

On July 3, 2024, as part of the Oversight Committee, Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) and institutions such as The Nature Conservancy, Conservation International, and Yayasan Konservasi Cakrawala Indonesia (YKCI) signed a debt-for-nature swap agreement. This agreement, along with the Interim Charge d'Affaires (KUAI) of the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia, the Director-General of Marine and Coastal Management of the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, and the Director-General of Budgetary Management and Financial Risk of the Indonesian Ministry of Finance, involves the transfer of USD 35 million to fund coral reef conservation programs in the Bird's Head Seascape, the Lesser Sunda Seas, and the Banda Sea.

Executive Director of YKAN, Herlina Hartanto, appreciates this innovative TFCCA agreement, expressing hopes that marine conservation efforts will be further enhanced, inspiring others to join this vital initiative to benefit nature and communities in Indonesia.