Enviro News Asia, Jakarta — Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry and Indonesian Quarantine Agency have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance inter-agency coordination in preventing illegal trafficking of plants and wildlife, while reinforcing the national biosecurity system.
The agreement marks a strategic step toward building a more coordinated, collaborative, and operational framework between the two institutions, particularly in addressing cross-border threats such as invasive species, plant pests, and illegal wildlife trade.
Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni emphasized that the partnership reflects the government’s commitment to breaking down institutional silos and strengthening joint action. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that policies are not only well-designed but also practical and implementable on the ground.
The Minister also underscored the growing risks posed by invasive plant species and harmful organisms that threaten ecosystems and wildlife habitats, calling for strengthened vigilance and collective action to safeguard Indonesia’s biodiversity.
Meanwhile, Head of the Indonesian Quarantine Agency Abdul Kadir Karding stated that the collaboration is crucial for enhancing quarantine systems and monitoring the movement of plants and wildlife. He noted that stronger coordination would improve the country’s ability to prevent the entry and spread of pests and animal diseases that could damage ecosystems and biodiversity.
Under the MoU, both institutions agreed to intensify data and information sharing, strengthen monitoring at key entry points such as ports and airports, and develop joint operational measures, including pilot projects in areas with high levels of illegal wildlife trade.
The partnership is expected to send a strong signal of the government’s integrated approach in protecting Indonesia’s biodiversity from both domestic and transboundary threats. (*)
