By: Diah R. Sulistiowati

Balikpapan, September 27, 2017. A number of representatives of the world's governors were present in Balikpapan for discussions on climate change and forests or the Governor's Climate and Forest Task Force (GCF) Annual Meeting 2017. The meeting was attended by the Governors of Acre, Brazil; Rondônia, Brazil; Deputy Governor of Tocantins, Brazil and others.

In his speech, the Governor of East Kalimantan, Awang Faroek stated that there are three important things to be discussed in this meeting, namely: First, the protection and recognition of indigenous territories, especially those related to forest protection; Second, related to the participation of indigenous peoples and local communities in several discussions and policies at national and sub-national levels; Third, about the financial scenario and the distribution of benefits from climate change mitigation programs similar to the framework carried out by indigenous peoples and local communities.

In 2015, East Kalimantan Province has issued Regional Regulation No. 1 Year 2015 on Procedures to Protect and Recognize Local Communities. "Through this regulation, we inform that all indigenous peoples in our region are identified, recognized and become legal entities for the protection of indigenous territories and also their empowerment," explained the Governor of East Kalimantan. He also mentioned that the Dayak community contributed a lot to save the 38,000 Ha Wehea forest.

The event also received remarks from the Norwegian Ambassador, Per Pharo and GCF Representative, William Boyd. In addition, remarks were also given by the Minister of Environment and Forestry, Mrs. Dr. Siti Nurbaya who was represented by Mrs. Nur Masripatin, Director General of Climate Change Control, Ministry of Environment and Forestry. In her remarks, she stated that Indonesia continues to be committed to working to reduce the impact of climate change.

Dr. Bambang Satrio, Director General of Plantation, Ministry of Agriculture was also present and gave a speech. In his remarks, he said that Indonesian plantations contribute to forest conservation and also strive for ISPO for all oil palm plantations in Indonesia.

At the event, the East Kalimantan Green Development Agreement was also made. The agreement was signed by the parties present, such as the Global Green Growth Institute, The Nature Conservancy, the East Kalimantan Provincial government, several companies, communities and others.