Toward a Resilient ASEAN: Reframing Food Security Through Inclusive Climate Adaptation in the Marine Fisheries Sector

Abstract

Numerous studies have observed that climate change has a tangible impact on marine fish catches, subsequently affecting the incomes of fishers and food security in ASEAN countries that heavily rely on this sector, such as the Philippines, Myanmar, Indonesia, and Thailand. This study aims to examine the impacts of climate change on the productivity of the marine fisheries sector and to formulate inclusive and contextual adaptation strategies for ASEAN members as highlighted in the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), as part of the regional agenda to protect food security and economic growth. Using a qualitative approach, this study synthesizes theoretical and empirical research to investigate how the climate crisis affects the income and food security of small-scale fishers in ASEAN countries, with a particular focus on Indonesia. Indonesia was selected as the case study due to its characteristics as a maritime nation with a dominant marine industry and national policies that prioritize this sector. The findings indicate that adaptation strategies implemented within the fisheries sector hold significant potential in reducing the climate-related risks faced by smallscale fishers. The study highlights the importance of community-based fisheries management and marine conservation as integral components of climate adaptation approaches. Governments are encouraged to align supply chain investments with sustainably managed fisheries, implement disincentives for destructive fishing practices, and develop performancebased incentive schemes as part of ASEAN's collective efforts to ensure the sustainability of marine resources and regional food security.