Indonesia's mangrove forests are currently in critical condition and seriously damaged, according to Fishery and Marine Affairs Minister Fadel Muhammad. "Around 70 percent of mangrove forests in Indonesia are in critical condition and seriously damaged," Minister Fadel Muhammad said when launching a mangrove planting campaign at Poka village, Teluk Ambon sub district, Maluku Province, Friday. He cited a lack of public awareness as a factor which caused the degradation of mangrove forests. The mangrove tree planting and beach cleaning up campaign in the Ambon Gulf area was organized as part of the activities in the Sail Banda international marine event, ANTARA reported. At least 50,000 mangrove seedlings were planted in several locations in Ambon city and Ambon Island, on the occasion.
