Banda Aceh, Indonesia – November 2, 2026

Yayasan Konservasi Pesisir Indonesia (YAKOPI), in collaboration with the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance (CBA), conducted a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and stakeholder interviews at the Aceh Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office (DKP Aceh) on November 2, 2026. The activity formed part of the ongoing Pre-Feasibility Study (Pre-FS) for the proposed Mangrove Restoration Living Lab initiative in Indonesia, aimed at exploring opportunities to strengthen ecosystem restoration, sustainable resource management, and community-based economic development.

The discussion focused on gathering stakeholder perspectives, identifying potential opportunities and challenges, and understanding the regulatory and technical considerations relevant to mangrove restoration initiatives. Through interviews and structured questionnaires, the study seeks to assess preliminary conditions and identify key requirements for further evaluation, including institutional coordination, environmental considerations, and opportunities for sustainable financing.

In addition to the FGD and interviews, YAKOPI conducted follow-up coordination regarding the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Aceh. The discussion reflected continued efforts to strengthen institutional engagement and explore opportunities for long-term collaboration in supporting coastal ecosystem conservation and restoration. The MoU remains under discussion as part of the ongoing coordination process.

The stakeholder interviews and questionnaire sessions were successfully conducted, with the outcomes documented to support subsequent analysis and the next stages of the Pre-Feasibility Study. The findings are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the opportunities, challenges, and approaches needed to advance the proposed Mangrove Restoration Living Lab initiative.

Through this collaborative effort, YAKOPI and CBA continue to promote an integrated approach to landscape restoration, connecting ecological recovery with sustainable livelihoods, inclusive economic opportunities, and long-term environmental resilience.

One Team, One Dream, For Generations!