An International Conference on Regional Cooperation for the Protection of the Marine Environment, organised by the Centre for International Law (CIL) of the National University of Singapore (NUS), discussed cooperative efforts by regional bodies and platforms, and ways to improve the state of the marine environment in the region.
The discussion included the legal background, international and regional frameworks, and institutional set-ups.
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Namely, relevant governance models from the Mediterranean, Arctic, Baltic, and Caribbean regions were highlighted in benchmarking best practices and lessons learned. The forum also focused on the OSPAR Convention and the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security (CTI-CFF) for possible insights and avenues for cooperation in the region.
Challenges and prospects and key issues on marine pollution and environmental protection were also analysed including topical areas like plastics and ship source pollution.
In addition, a joint paper on Ship Source Pollution delivered by Cheryl Rita and Fairoz Rozali from the Marine Department Malaysia mentioned national efforts and actions to regional and international commitments to address vessels source pollution. Possible models on the way forward were recommended as well.
Finally, the forum explored regional challenges and prospects including legal and political issues, the role of science, and financial assistance. Final discussions regarded the way forward and prospects for enhanced cooperation within ASEAN.
