PIS promotes marine literacy through Ocean LiteraSEA RI programme
Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), together with Inovasi Muda, is driving the improvement of marine literacy and environmental awareness among the younger generation through the Ocean LiteraSEA programme, which targets communities in coastal areas.
This Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) programme, focused on the education pillar, has been operational since 2023 and has reached 61 coastal schools, with more than 3,600 students as beneficiaries and producing 41 certified teachers.
“This is where Ocean LiteraSEA comes in, to increase the knowledge and awareness of the community, especially the younger generation in coastal areas, regarding the importance of protecting the sea,” said Restu during the Indonesia Sustainability 3och Forum 2026.
According to him, marine literacy is not limited to providing environmental knowledge, but also encourages children to care, take action, develop skills, and recognise future professional opportunities.
Such behavioural changes are already visible at SD Negeri Sarang Tiung in Kotabaru, South Kalimantan. A teacher at the school, Kusriati, noted that students have begun reminding one another not to litter and are bringing these environmental conservation habits back to their homes.
In addition to providing education, Ocean LiteraSEA has revitalised 25 libraries, processed 3.86 tonnes of waste, and provided scholarships to 15 young seafarers.
“This is our effort to prepare the generation that will protect the ocean in the future. A generation that will eventually make decisions, lead change, and determine how our seas and natural resources are managed sustainably,” said Vega.
She assessed that investing in the younger generation is a vital part of maintaining the long-term sustainability of the maritime ecosystem.
This urgency aligns with national waste issues. Based on data from the National Waste Management Information System (SIPSN) of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, national waste generation in 2025 is estimated to reach 50.6 million tonnes, with approximately 40 per cent unmanaged and potentially ending up in the ocean.
Marine debris can threaten biota, damage habitats, and disrupt food chains. Therefore, education and behavioural change starting from the school level are considered essential steps in building a generation that cares for the preservation of Indonesia’s seas.