Jakarta – To combat deforestation and climate change, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry said that Indonesia has received a USD100 million contribution from Norway. This funding continues the cooperation between the two nations, following a performance-based contribution of USD56 million in October 2022. The agreement was signed by Environmental Fund Management Agency (Badan Pengelola Dana Lingkungan Hidup/BPDLH) President Director Joko Tri Haryanto and Norwegian Ambassador to Indonesia Rut Kruger Giverin in the presence of Indonesian Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya.
The additional funding is a reward for Indonesia’s successful reduction in deforestation rates during 2017/18 and 2018/19. Minister Siti Nurbaya highlighted the significance of this achievement, noting that the agreement is a testament to Indonesia’s commitment to concrete climate action and a demonstration of tangible, community-beneficial progress.
Ambassador Giverin emphasised that the contribution aligns with Norway’s commitment to supporting Indonesia’s ambitious 2030 FOLU Net Sink Operational Plan. This plan, which aims to significantly reduce emissions from the Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU) sector, represents a comprehensive approach to addressing deforestation in Indonesia.
The cooperation between Indonesia and Norway was further solidified last year by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This MOU focuses on results-based collaboration and has been a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship in addressing climate and natural crises.
During the Climate Summit in Dubai, or COP28, Norway announced an additional USD100 million contribution, recognising Indonesia’s efforts in reducing deforestation. Ambassador Giverin praised Indonesia for its impressive achievements under President Joko Widodo’s leadership and hoped that these efforts would inspire other countries to take proactive measures against climate change.
Director Joko Tri Haryanto outlined the key sectors where the Norwegian funds will be utilised: forest protection, sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, reduction of emissions from fires and peat decomposition, and law enforcement.
This renewed agreement marks another milestone in Indonesia’s commitment to not just rhetoric but actionable and recognised efforts in the fight against climate change. The partnership between Indonesia and Norway stands as a beacon of international cooperation and a model for other nations to follow. (nsh)
Banner photo: Ministry of Environment and Forestry
