"The initiative builds stronger political will and commitment for concerted action amongst six countries to conserve marine biodiversity and effectively manage their marine resources to ensure sustainable industries and food security in a rapidly changing environment. The CTI is considered a best practice model for taking the WOC spirit forward into action," said Indonesian Minister of Marine and Fisheries Freddy Numberi here.

He said that the challenges that lie ahead were enormous.

"But with our strong determination and shared commitment to a common goal, I believe that we will be able to stem the adverse impacts of climate change on our ocean resources for the sake of our children and our children's children," he said.

The other five countries are Solomon Islands, Malaysia, Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and the Philippines.