Ulaanbaatar, 13–14 May 2025 — At the 12th Session of the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) Assembly, Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable forest management by advancing the initiative of an Asian Living Laboratory (Living Lab). The Indonesian delegation, led by Head of the Center for Sustainable Forest Development (P2HB), Gun Gun Hidayat, emphasized that Living Labs are essential for capacity building, climate change impact measurement, and innovation in sustainable forest management. This initiative is intended to bridge science, policy, and practical implementation at the field level. Indonesia also shared its best practices in managing Special Purpose Forest Areas (KHDTK) as Living Labs.

In support of this initiative, Indonesia is currently updating its official data on KHDTK. To date, there are 99 KHDTK units under research and training purposes, covering a total area of 157,088 hectares. “Living Labs contribute not only to education and research but also play a strategic role in broader forest governance, including conservation, restoration, and the formulation of technical biodiversity protection policies,” added Gun Gun Hidayat.

Beyond the Living Lab initiative, the 12th AFoCO Assembly also addressed opportunities in climate financing, green investment, and partnerships with the private sector. Representatives from Artha Network Inc, Economics of Mutuality (EOM), and Merry-Year Social Company (MYSC) were present to explore collaboration with AFoCO member countries.

The session concluded with the announcement of the next assembly and Mongolia’s readiness to host the UNCCD COP 17 in 2026. The Indonesian head delegate expressed sincere appreciation to the Mongolian Forest Department for their warm hospitality and excellent organization of the 12th AFoCO Assembly.***