Abdul Manan, Jakarta – The Indonesian Environment and Forestry Ministry has announced that it will no longer issue permits for timber extraction in mangrove ecosystems. Permits will now be prioritized for environmental services.

"Environment and Forestry Ministry no longer issues permits for timber extraction," said Ristianto Pribadi, Director of Mangrove Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, during a discussion in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, as quoted by Antara.

Ristianto stated that environmental services in mangrove ecosystems could include the utilization of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) and ecotourism. There is also potential for carbon economic value, especially for carbon trading.

Considering this potential, Ristianto emphasized that investment approach has become a crucial step to support mangrove rehabilitation efforts, rather than solely relying on government funding. "The key is not only collaboration, but well-institutionalized collaboration," he said.

Ristianto appreciated the international initiative, Mangrove Breakthrough, in promoting increased protection and management of mangroves in the country. Specifically, he hoped for support and synergy from all stakeholders in the effort to protect the mangroves.

According to the National Mangrove Map 2025, Indonesia has approximately 3,440,464 hectares of mangroves and a potential mangrove habitat covering 769,824 hectares. The latest area measurement is determined by the Indonesian Minister of Forestry Decree No. 594 of 2025 on the National Mangrove Map for the year 2024.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1997551/indonesian-govt-bans-timber-extraction-in-mangrove-ecosystem