US Provides US$7 Million To Sea Park

Manado (Antara Bali) - The US government has provided funds of US$7 million to help develop the National Sea Park of Bunaken, the US Consul General in Surabaya, Kristen Bauer, said here on Sunday during a visit to Bunaken.

"We have been cooperating in the field of environment with the government of Indonesia, particularly for the Bunaken National Sea Park area, from 1997 to 2003," she declared.      

According to her, the funds are used to help fishermen conducting fish farming to sustain their daily lives.      

The fishermen also contribute to the park's safety by patrolling the national park jointly with the relevant agencies to ensure that only appropriate activities are conducted in appropriate places in the park.      

"We also want to make sure that the system which was built long ago is still functioning. Are the fishermen is still protecting and preserving the environment while continuing with their farming?" Kristen inquired.(IGT)