18-10-2023 (JAKARTA) The Indonesian government has put forth a proposal to elevate illegal fishing to the status of a transnational organized crime during the 61st Asian-African Legal Consultative Organization (AALCO) meeting in Nusa Dua, Bali.
Cahyo R. Muzhar, the Director-General of General Legal Administration at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, expressed confidence in AALCO’s capacity to represent the collective interests of Asian-African nations in addressing global challenges. Speaking during the meeting on Tuesday, Muzhar underscored the need for AALCO to play a constructive role in confronting these challenges.
The head of the Indonesian delegation at the 61st AALCO meeting emphasized the significance of categorizing illegal fishing as a transnational organized crime, citing the substantial global losses caused by this illicit practice. Data from the United Nations Agency for Food and Agriculture (FAO) estimates that illegal fishing leads to annual losses of approximately US$23 billion, a staggering figure that highlights the urgency of addressing this issue.
Muzhar acknowledged that not all AALCO member countries share the same characteristics as Indonesia, particularly in terms of maritime regions with exclusive economic zones (EEZs). Furthermore, he pointed out that some illegal fishing activities involve perpetrators from AALCO member nations or utilize ships and flags associated with AALCO member countries, further underscoring the need for a collective response.
Indonesia is actively seeking common ground and shared perspectives among AALCO member nations and aims to raise this matter at international forums, including the United Nations (UN).
Additionally, Indonesia is putting forward a new proposal to establish a forum that brings together experts to facilitate the return of assets acquired through corrupt means and transferred abroad. Muzhar acknowledged the complexities involved in repatriating assets related to international crimes between countries and emphasized that an expert forum could enhance cooperation among Asian-African nations through discussions and the exchange of experiences.
“As one of the founding members of AALCO, Indonesia remains unwavering in its commitment to AALCO’s principles and performance, and anticipates enhanced collaboration in the future,” Muzhar affirmed. The Indonesian government’s proactive engagement in addressing issues such as illegal fishing and asset repatriation underscores the nation’s dedication to fostering cooperation among Asian-African countries in tackling transnational challenges.
