JAKARTA (28/1) – The Government of Indonesia has officially partnered with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to organize the inaugural Ocean Impact Summit (OIS), which will take place in Bali on June 8–9, 2026. This collaboration with the WEF aims to advance Indonesia’s innovative marine and fisheries industries, positioning the country as a global hub for the marine economy.
The expected investment is not limited to exploring marine resources for economic gain but also prioritizes technological innovation aligned with blue economy principles.
“We intend for OIS to serve as a delivery forum, given that it is an international event attended by representatives of numerous countries and leaders of global organizations. Preparations are already underway, and this event will be a key milestone in advancing our marine and fisheries potential through innovative and sustainable approaches,” said the Special Advisor to the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Doni Ismanto Darwin, during a press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday (28/1).
Senior Advisor to the Minister on Marine Ecology and Resources, Hendra Yusran Siry, added that in addition to the partnership with the WEF, the implementation of OIS 2026 is supported by OceanX, a global non-profit organization focusing on marine technology innovation. The forum is expected to generate breakthroughs in the sustainable utilization of marine resources, supporting economic growth and food security while safeguarding ocean health.
Hendra highlighted the potential of algae species in Indonesian waters to be developed into biodegradable plastic industries. Furthermore, deep-sea marine organisms hold promise for the development of biocosmetic and biopharmaceutical industries.
“These will become the industries of the future, but we must actively pursue them. We cannot merely offer potential; we must also engage strategically. OIS provides a pathway for innovation and investment. This effort must be carried out continuously so that partners and prospective investors can fully understand the potential,” Hendra explained.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Multilateral Cooperation Team at the Bureau of Public Relations and International Cooperation, Desri Yanti, stated that the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) between MMAF and the WEF on the sidelines of the WEF Annual Meeting 2026 in Davos reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting the OIS event in Bali this June.
The LoI was signed by Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono and senior WEF officials during the meeting in Davos, witnessed directly by President Prabowo Subianto. The WEF Annual Meeting 2026, held from January 19–23, was attended by approximately 3,000 global leaders from more than 130 countries, including 850 CEOs of leading global companies.
“The WEF is a leading global think tank in organizing international forums. Partnering with the WEF will significantly enhance the global credibility of OIS. We expect OIS to strengthen Indonesia’s leadership in the marine and fisheries sector at the global level. Ultimately, Indonesia aims to become a global marine economy hub, given our position as the world’s largest archipelagic nation,” she stated.
Desri Yanti further added that MMAF remains open to partnerships with various stakeholders in organizing OIS 2026 in Bali. Support from government institutions, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations will be essential to ensuring the success of the summit.
Source: Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Republic of Indonesia