The Government of Indonesia, through cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) of the Republic of Indonesia and the Center for Transdisciplinary and Sustainability Sciences (CTSS) of IPB University, held the Capacity Building for Like-Minded Countries (LMCs): Sustainable Timber activity on June 21–July 3 2026.
This activity received grant funding from the Indonesian Agency for International Development (LDKPI), and was attended by government representatives and forestry sector stakeholders from 16 like-minded countries (LMCs).
Head of CTSS IPB University, Prof Damayanti Buchori, said this capacity ubuilding program aims to share knowledge in the management of legal, sustainable, and competitive timber commodities.
In addition, this activity also aims to encourage the exchange of experiences, strengthen cooperation networks, and develop collaboration between countries in facing the sustainability challenges of the forestry sector and the global timber trade.
Prof Damayanti explained that the participants of the activity came from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Ghana, Guatemala, Honduras, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Thailand, Papua New Guinea, and Saint Lucia.
“During the implementation of the activity, participants will take part in learning sessions in Jakarta and Bogor as well as a field visit in Banyuwangi to study various forest management and timber industry practices in Indonesia,” she said.
One of the main topics to be discussed is the implementation of the Timber Legality Verification and Sustainability System (SVLK), which has become a national instrument in guaranteeing the legality, traceability, and sustainability of Indonesian timber products. This system is also one of the important references in efforts to increase market access for Indonesian timber products to international markets.
At the opening of the training, the Rector of IPB University, Dr Alim Setiawan Slamet, stated that Indonesia, as one of the countries with the largest forests, has long experience in sustainable forest management. He said this program is expected to become a tangible program that can support all countries in achieving resilience in sustainable forest management.
“IPB University is proud to be part of this program. IPB has long embedded sustainability in the fields of education, research, and community service. This program becomes a point in establishing global collaboration,” said Dr Alim.
Kamapradipta Isnomo, as Expert Staff for Social, Cultural, and Human Development Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, affirmed that through this program, Indonesia seeks to encourage the exchange of sustainable agricultural practices that are relevant and applicable for partner countries. This is highly relevant amid the increasing importance of discussions on sustainable commodities and their role in sustainable global supply chains.
The Director of Investment and Fund Disbursement of LDKPI, Iwan Nur Hidayat, added that Indonesia is committed to establishing international cooperation. The presence of participants in Indonesia is expected to become a bridge in enhancing roles at the international level, especially for southern countries. (*/Rz) (IAAS/PRP)
