On November 11, 2024, a significant meeting took place at IPB University in Bogor to discuss the Draft of the Palembang Protocol, an initiative to increase awareness and support for inland fisheries across Southeast Asia. This protocol is a product of the recent “Workshop on Best Practices in Inland Fisheries Management to Optimize Well-being,” held on October 23, 2024, which brought together leaders, experts, and stakeholders from across the region to discuss sustainable management practices crucial for the future of inland fisheries. The workshop, particularly during the perception-gathering session led by Prof. Dr. Luky Adrianto, provided a platform for stakeholders to share views on the “Blue Transformation,” a global initiative advocating for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive aquatic food systems.
The workshop emphasized the need for a collaborative regional effort to support food security, sustainable development, and climate resilience. With the foundation laid by these discussions, the Draft of Palembang Protocol aims to integrate inland fisheries into Southeast Asia’s Blue Transformation agenda, ensuring that this sector becomes a cornerstone of the region’s food security and agri-food system transformation.