Ecobiz.asia — Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to protecting biodiversity and accelerating the recognition of indigenous forests as part of its national strategy to combat environmental crimes and strengthen community-based forest governance, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni said at the United for Wildlife Global Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday (Nov. 4, 2025).
Raja Juli Antoni said Indonesia is committed to recognizing 1.4 million hectares of new indigenous forests during the 2025–2029 period.
“One crucial aspect often overlooked in addressing environmental crimes is the involvement of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. They are the true guardians of our forests,” he told ministers and delegates from around the world.
He explained that in March 2025, the government established a Special Task Force for Accelerating the Recognition of Indigenous Forests, following directives from President Prabowo Subianto. The task force aims to formalize an additional 1.4 million hectares of indigenous forest rights by 2029.
Raja Juli Antoni noted that recognizing indigenous forests is not only an acknowledgment of Indigenous Peoples’ rights but has also been proven to reduce deforestation by 30 to 50 percent, according to 2024 SOIFO data.
“By supporting community-based forest governance, Indonesia strengthens legal certainty, tenure security, and sustainable forest management,” he said.
The minister also called for cross-border cooperation and global data sharing to tackle environmental crimes such as illegal wildlife trade and transboundary deforestation.
“Indonesia stands ready to collaborate in global coalitions to stop environmental crimes and preserve the planet’s natural heritage for future generations,” Raja Juli Antoni said.
Tom Clements, Executive Director of United for Wildlife, welcomed Indonesia’s new commitment. “We applaud Indonesia’s bold pledge to recognize 1.4 million hectares of indigenous forests as part of its leadership in reducing deforestation. This is an inspiring example of how strong forest governance can protect both people and the planet,” he said.
The United for Wildlife Global Summit—organized by the Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales—was also attended by His Royal Highness Prince William, along with delegates from various countries and international organizations. This year’s theme focused on protecting environmental defenders and tackling environmental crime. ***
