Mataram, University of Mataram – The University of Mataram (Unram), in collaboration with IPB University and the International Small Islands Studies Association (ISISA), successfully organised the second excursion on Thursday, 27 June 2024, in a series of 19th Islands of the World Conference (IWC) events. The excursion was attended by hundreds of participants from 28 countries.

 

This time, the participants were invited to visit Gili Asahan, a small island located in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Province. They received an in-depth explanation of “Coastal Region and Small Islands” delivered by Dr. Sukuryadi, S.Kel., M.Si., a lecturer in the Master’s Program in Environmental Science Study Program from University of Muhammadiyah Mataram.

 

The material presented by Dr. Sukuryadi included several important topics, namely related to coastal areas and small islands, development zones for coastal and marine areas in NTB Province, existing conditions of Gili Asahan, problems in the coastal area of Gili Asahan, and the direction of coastal area management policies for Gili Asahan.

 

This excursion aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by coastal areas and small islands, especially in Gili Asahan. In addition, this activity is also expected to inspire participants to contribute to the management and conservation of the environment in coastal areas.

 

Not only that, the activities also included a beach clean-up action, which involved all participants to directly maintain the cleanliness and sustainability of the Gili Asahan environment.

 

Ahmad Junaidi, M.A., Ph.D., as the 19th IWC Co-Chair, conveyed Unram’s role and commitment in organising the IWC this time. He emphasised that Unram is determined to make a full contribution to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).

 

“It is important for us to work together and collaborate between countries in overcoming various environmental problems. We hope this conference can be a forum for academics and practitioners to share knowledge and innovative solutions in managing coastal areas and small islands,” he said.

 

With this excursion, participants are expected to bring back valuable knowledge and experience that can be applied in their respective countries to support environmental conservation and sustainable development efforts.

 

This excursion is one of a series of 19th IWC events that take place over several days from 25 – 29 June 2024. This conference is an important event for academics, researchers, and practitioners from various countries to share knowledge and experience in the field of small island and coastal area studies.