PRESS RELEASE
Number:SP.274/HUMAS/PPIP/HMS.3/11/2025

Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, attended the United for Wildlife Global Summit and High-Level Ministerial Roundtable in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 4 November 2025. Minister Raja Antoni reaffirmed Indonesia’s strong commitment to the recognition of Indigenous forests.

In his address, Minister Raja Juli Antoni stated that protecting biodiversity and accelerating the recognition of Indigenous forests are integral parts of Indonesia’s national strategy to combat environmental crimes and strengthen community-based forest governance.

“One crucial aspect often overlooked in tackling environmental crimes is the involvement of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. They are the true guardians of our forests,” said Raja Juli Antoni, addressing ministers and representatives from around the world.

The United for Wildlife Global Summit and High-Level Ministerial Roundtable is a prestigious gathering organized by The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The forum was attended by His Royal Highness, Prince William, along with delegates from various countries and international organizations.

During the forum, the Minister of Forestry explained that in March 2025, Indonesia established a Special Task Force for Accelerating the Recognition of Indigenous Forests. Following the directive of President Prabowo Subianto, Minister Raja Antoni set a target to recognize 1.4 million hectares of new Indigenous forests during the 2025–2029 period.

Raja Juli Antoni emphasized that the recognition of Indigenous forests is not only a form of respect for the rights of Indigenous Peoples but has also been proven to reduce deforestation rates by 30–50 percent, according to SOIFO 2024 data.

“Through support for community-based forest governance, Indonesia is strengthening legal clarity, tenure security, and the sustainability of forest management,” he said.

“Therefore, accelerating this recognition is essential. Equally important is our commitment to acknowledging Indigenous Peoples and local communities,” he added.

Minister Raja Antoni also called for cross-border cooperation and global data exchange to address environmental crimes such as illegal wildlife trade and deforestation.

Concluding his speech, he affirmed Indonesia’s readiness to become an active partner in the global coalition to stop environmental crimes and preserve the planet’s natural heritage for future generations.

“Let us move beyond rhetoric toward genuine solidarity. Indonesia stands ready to collaborate—together we can ensure that our natural legacy endures for generations to come.”

Tom Clements, Executive Director United for Wildlife said: “We welcome Indonesia’s new bold commitment in recognising 1.4 million hectares of customary forests for Indigenous Peoples as part of its sustained leadership in reducing deforestation in recent years. This is an inspiring example of leadership in protecting both people and planet. By supporting local communities, the country is showing that strong forest governance is key to tackling environmental crime and preserving its shared natural heritage. We are delighted that Indonesia chose to announce this important step at this year’s United for Wildlife Global Summit, where the theme is protecting nature’s defenders and the focus is on combating environmental crime."(*)

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Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, Kemenhut, 4 November 2025

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