Sustainable fisheries have become a key approach to preserving marine ecosystems while improving the welfare of coastal communities. Southeast Asia, blessed with abundant marine resources, faces major challenges such as overfishing, habitat degradation, and the impacts of climate change.
In response, countries in the region have developed sustainable fisheries initiatives that focus not only on ecological aspects but also on social and economic dimensions.
Concept and Principles of Sustainable Fisheries
Definition of Sustainable Fisheries
Sustainable fisheries are management practices that maintain viable fish stocks, protect marine ecosystems, and secure long-term benefits for coastal communities. This approach stresses balance between human needs and nature’s capacity, applying regulations, eco-friendly technologies, and active participation from fishers to achieve lasting results.
The concept rests on three main pillars: ecological, social, and economic. Ecologically, it prevents overfishing and habitat degradation. Socially, it ensures fairer access for small-scale fishers. Economically, it opens global market opportunities through certified products, creating long-term sustainability for communities while preserving marine environments.
Sustainable Fisheries Certification (MSC, ASC)
Certifications such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) are global standards for sustainable seafood products.
These labels provide consumer assurance that the products they purchase come from environmentally responsible practices. Certification also encourages fishers and industries to apply higher standards in ocean management.
Why Sustainable Fisheries Matter in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is one of the world’s largest fish producers, making fisheries sustainability directly linked to regional food security.
The heavy dependence of communities on the sea makes sustainable practices increasingly urgent. With proper management, the sector can simultaneously support the economy and conserve marine resources.
Sustainable fisheries also play a vital role in strengthening regional resilience against climate change and market challenges.
By adopting responsible practices, Southeast Asia can secure food supplies, protect marine biodiversity, and provide stable livelihoods, ensuring that the benefits of its rich ocean resources are preserved for future generations.
Read also: Meet Indonesia’s New Weapon to Crackdown Illegal Fishing
5 Best Sustainable Fisheries Initiatives in Southeast Asia
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Indonesia – Underwater Restocking (UWR)
The Underwater Restocking program in East Java is a prime example of fish stock rehabilitation through direct release of fry into the sea. This initiative restores coral reef ecosystems and boosts populations of economically important fish. Local fishers are actively involved, ensuring that the program directly contributes to sustainable catch yields.
In addition, UWR plays an educational role, raising awareness among coastal communities about the importance of marine conservation. By engaging schools, fisher groups, and NGOs, the initiative fosters collective responsibility for protecting the sea.
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Philippines – Fishery Improvement Projects (FIP)
The Philippines has successfully implemented Fishery Improvement Projects (FIP) focusing on tuna and blue crab. Through these programs, fishing practices are more tightly regulated to meet international standards. Collaboration between government, industry, and international organizations has enabled Philippine seafood products to gain MSC certification.
FIP has also expanded global market access for local fishers and exporters. Certified tuna and crab products not only command higher value but also increase the Philippines’ competitiveness in international markets that increasingly demand sustainability.
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Thailand – Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)
Thailand has developed Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), combining fish farming with seaweed and shellfish cultivation. This system utilizes the waste from one species as nutrients for another. The result is production efficiency, pollution reduction, and income diversification for farmers.
IMTA also enhances resilience to climate change by creating a more ecologically balanced farming system. For small-scale farmers, this approach offers additional income streams and reduces risks associated with reliance on a single commodity.
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Vietnam – Anti-IUU Fishing and Traceability Program
Vietnam has launched a major program to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing, with a strong focus on product traceability. Every exported fish can be tracked from catch point to international markets. This initiative improves transparency and strengthens Vietnam’s global market position.
Besides curbing illegal fishing, the program enhances Vietnam’s reputation among global consumers. With traceability systems in place, Vietnamese seafood products gain more trust, enabling the country to maintain exports to markets such as the EU, which requires high sustainability standards.
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Malaysia – Climate Adaptive, Inclusive, and Nature-based Aquaculture (CAINA)
Through the CAINA program, Malaysia promotes aquaculture systems based on natural ecosystems. This model considers environmental carrying capacity while adapting to climate change. Small-scale fishers are integrated into the supply chain, ensuring long-term economic benefits.
CAINA also emphasizes diversifying fishers’ livelihoods with community-based approaches. By combining eco-friendly farming and inclusive market access, the initiative strengthens the economic resilience of Malaysian coastal communities amid global climate challenges.
The Role of Regional and International Collaboration
Regional cooperation under ASEAN plays a crucial role in unifying sustainable fisheries policies. Knowledge and experience sharing between countries accelerates best practice adoption. Furthermore, collaboration with international organizations such as the FAO and MSC strengthens the capacity of countries in the region to combat IUU fishing.
Support programs and funding from global institutions also help small-scale fishers access modern technologies. With a collaborative approach, sustainable fisheries can be implemented more consistently across the region, while also strengthening Southeast Asia’s bargaining power in global markets.
Read also: Blue Economy: Myanmar’s Untapped Marine Potentials
Building New Hope with Sustainable Fisheries in Southeast Asia
Sustainable fisheries are not only about keeping the oceans healthy but also about creating an inclusive and fair future for coastal communities. Through these five flagship initiatives, Southeast Asia demonstrates that ecological, social, and economic goals can go hand in hand.
If strengthened further, these practices can become a global model for ocean management.
Now is the time for us as consumers to contribute by choosing products with MSC or ASC labels that guarantee ocean sustainability. Explore eco-friendly product collections at SVRG and be part of building a better future for sustainable fisheries.
References
- Danilo B. Largo, Annie G. Diola, Mario S. Marababol (2016). Development of an integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system for tropical marine species in southern cebu, Central Philippines, Aquaculture Reports, Volume 3.
- Sahsan, Ina & Kartika, Vidya (2023). Underwater Restocking, Solusi Jawa Timur untuk Perikanan Berkelanjutan di Indonesia Provinsi Jawa Timur. https://localisesdgs-indonesia.org/beranda/cs/underwater-restocking-solusi-jawa-timur-untuk-perikanan-berkelanjutan-di-indonesia#
- UNDP. Philippines: Sustainable Fisheries. https://www.undp.org/foodsystems/philippines-sustainable-fisheries
- Vietnam Law Magazine (2024). Vietnam’s anti-IUU fishing efforts: Insights from Global Experts. https://vietnamlawmagazine.vn/vietnams-anti-iuu-fishing-efforts-insights-from-global-experts-72461.html
