KKP Introduces Ocean Calculator to Enhance Data-Based Marine Management

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) in collaboration with the World Resources Institute (WRI) Indonesia introduced the Ocean Calculator, a geospatial platform based on the Marine Resource Balance (NSDL) that can quickly, accurately, and scientifically calculate the economic value of marine and coastal ecosystems. This platform utilizes geospatial data, satellite imagery, and research results to assess the benefits of ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs for coastal protection, blue carbon storage, and community livelihoods.

The Director General of Marine Management at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Koswara, stated that the Ocean Calculator was developed as part of the effort to build ocean accounting, a system that integrates environmental and economic information to support sustainable marine development planning.

"The Ocean Calculator was developed as part of the effort to build ocean accounting, a system that integrates environmental and economic information to support sustainable marine development planning. We hope this platform continues to evolve and becomes part of strengthening marine policies based on scientific evidence," Koswara said in an official statement in Jakarta, Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

The Ocean Calculator prototype was introduced during the Introduction and Technical Workshop on the Ocean Calculator in Jakarta last week, coinciding with the commemoration of World Oceans Day. This platform has been developed since 2024 by WRI Indonesia in collaboration with several universities in Indonesia and Australia, with support from the Australian Government thru the KONEKSI program (Australia-Indonesia Knowledge Partnership Platform).

In addition to providing information on coastal ecosystem conditions, the Ocean Calculator also integrates the aspects of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI). This feature helps the government and stakeholders understand the relationship between ecosystem conditions and the communities that depend on marine resources, allowing for the formulation of more inclusive and sustainable coastal development policies.

Meanwhile, the Director of Ecosystem Conservation at KKP, Firdaus Agung, stated that the Ocean Calculator underwent testing in February 2026 and is now integrated with the Conservation Data Information System (SIDAKO), making it accessible to the public as a center for ecosystem conservation information in Indonesia.

"The Ocean Calculator also helps various stakeholders understand the strategic value of marine ecosystems and their contribution to environmental sustainability, community welfare, and economic activities in coastal areas," he said.

Previously, the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, affirmed that ocean management must be data and science-based so that economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental preservation. The presence of the Ocean Calculator is expected to become one of the instruments to strengthen modern, measurable marine governance and support the realization of Indonesia's blue economy.