12 Years of Consistent Commitment: A Journey of Consistency for Sustainable Fisheries
- July 31, 2025
by Muhammad Alzaki Tristi
Twelve years is a long haul. For MDPI, it’s not just a milestone. It’s a measure of persistence. Since its founding, MDPI has stood shoulder to shoulder with small-scale fishers, pushed for sustainable fisheries, and supported the next generation to care for Indonesia’s marine ecosystems.
The theme of this anniversary, “Consistently Committed,” speaks for itself. It captures MDPI’s resolve to stay on course. And that is strengthening coastal livelihoods and driving real change in the future of fisheries.
Youth Voices Rising in Defense of the Ocean
MDPI’s commitment doesn’t stop at the shoreline. It extends into classrooms and student-led initiatives. Backing the Marine Photo Expo Competition (MPEC) and Ocean Scientific Essay Competition (OSEC), two student-driven events from Udayana University’s Faculty of Marine and Fisheries, MDPI helps young minds explore and express the ocean’s story.
Through photos and essays, students offer personal takes on the marine world. “This partnership shows that fisheries education belongs not just in the field, but in the creative minds of young people,” said Yunita Mardiani, MDPI’s Operations Lead. These works blend art and expression for marine conservation. In the hands of today’s youth, the vision for sustainable fisheries gains new depth.
Supporting Tomorrow’s Leaders
Partnering with STITI Indonesia, MDPI hosted a two-day Youth Leadership Workshop (July 28–29, 2025) at Udayana University. We aim to shape students into changemakers (called ‘Champions’) ready to lead in sustainable fisheries.
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In sessions filled with dialogue and grounded in real-world challenges, participants sharpened their leadership skills. They left not just with ideas, but with the tools to turn them into action.
Final Celebration: A Reflection on Commitment
MDPI’s 12th anniversary celebration brought together staff across Indonesia in a virtual gathering. Director Yasmine Simbolon used the moment to lay out a vision for the future—and a challenge.
“Twelve years prove our staying power,” she said. “We didn’t build consistency overnight. It came from tireless work in the field, in our data, in the way we show up for coastal communities. We carry that energy forward, even stronger.”
The event also spotlighted internal stories of commitment—field staff recounting moments of perseverance and program impact. MDPI recognized top performers for excellence in reporting and program management.
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Fueling the Next Chapter
MDPI turns 12 not by looking inward, but by doubling down on what lies ahead. The campaign hashtag, #12YearsConsistentlyCommitted, isn’t just a message—it’s a mission. From team members to community partners, the foundation calls for a renewed sense of purpose.
Because for MDPI, commitment isn’t a slogan. It’s a daily act. A promise to protect the sea and empower those who depend on it.