Engaging the Media: Announcing Coral Triangle Day 2024

Reaching a diverse audience effectively requires a strategic approach, and engaging the mass media remains a pivotal communication strategy. The Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF) Regional Secretariat recognizes this and invited journalists to a special meet-and-greet event at the CTI Center on Friday, May 31, 2024. This event marked the beginning of a series of activities celebrating Coral Triangle Day 2024.

Journalists had the opportunity to meet the new Executive Director, Dr. Frank Keith Griffin, who hails from Papua New Guinea and joined the team in March 2024. Additionally, they were also introduced to Mr. Hanung Cahyono, the new Deputy Executive Director for Corporate Services from Indonesia, who began his tenure in January 2024. This meet and greet provided an intimate setting for the media to engage with the leadership and staff of the CTI-CFF Regional Secretariat.

The highlight of the event was unveiling the Coral Triangle Day 2024 schedule, themed “Balancing Marine Conservation and Blue Economy.” This year’s activities would take place across various locations in North Sulawesi and include:

• Underwater Photography Contest in Bunaken: Showcasing the region's marine biodiversity through the lenses of talented photographers.

• Public Events at Manado Town Square: Engaging school children and university students in marine conservation awareness activities.

• Seminar on Women’s Role in Fisheries: Recognizing and celebrating the vital contributions of women in the fisheries sector.

• High-Level Forum on Blue Natural Capital: Discussing sustainable economic practices that benefit marine conservation.

• Scientific Seminar “Life Below Water”: Presenting the latest research and developments in marine science.

• 15th Anniversary Celebration of CTI-CFF: Culminating in a grand event at the CTI Center.

The press conference also featured notable speakers, including Dr. Ir. Tienneke Adam M.Si., Head of the North Sulawesi Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office, who served as a partner and co-host for those events.