Bali is once again in the global spotlight with the upcoming Bali Ocean Days (BOD) 2026, set to take place on January 30–31, 2026, at the InterContinental Bali Resort, Jimbaran.
Now entering its third edition, the event reinforces Indonesia’s role as a driving force in global efforts for ocean health, climate resilience, and coastal community empowerment.
Carrying the theme “Navigating Solutions for a Regenerative Ocean Future,” BOD 2026 is designed as an action-oriented forum that brings together government officials, scientists, social entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and coastal communities to turn commitments into tangible action.
Organized by the Sky Blue Sea (SBS) Foundation in collaboration with ministries, corporations, NGOs, and academic institutions, the event serves as a cross-sector collaboration platform in support of SDG 14: Life Below Water.
“Bali Ocean Days is no longer just a conference — it’s an annual forum reaffirming our commitment to real ocean action and reporting on progress made since the previous edition,” said Yoke Darmawan, Chairperson of the SBS Foundation Board, during a press conference in Ubud on Tuesday (Nov 11, 2025).
Meanwhile, Paul Tanjung Tan, Chair of the SBS Foundation Supervisory Board, emphasized that the movement aims to turn ocean solutions into reality.
“Bali Ocean Days is not merely a conference. It is a movement of accountability and innovation — ensuring that ocean solutions are realized, not just promised,” he said.
Pascal Philippe, Secretary-General of the SBS Foundation and BOD Program Director, added that the 2026 edition will feature broader international participation and introduce a business matchmaking format to connect innovators with investors.
According to Philippe, the BOD 2026 agenda will revolve around six key themes:
1. Marine Conservation Policy – Showcasing leadership from island nations such as Indonesia, Fiji, and Seychelles in managing marine protected areas.
2. Biodiversity Protection – Focusing on coral reef rehabilitation, reducing overfishing, and mitigating plastic pollution.
3. Ocean Technology & Innovation – Highlighting data-driven monitoring systems, robotics, and renewable ocean energy.
4. Finance & Governance – Advancing impact finance models to accelerate investment in the blue economy.
5. Empowerment & Equity – Strengthening the role of women and coastal youth in decision-making.
6. Business Matching – Facilitating collaboration between innovators and investors with support from ASEAN and the World Bank.
Okki Soebagio, Head of Partnerships & Investor Relations at the SBS Foundation, said the forum opens strategic opportunities for the private sector to engage in sustainability initiatives.
Meanwhile, Robert Ian Bonnick, Head of Marketing & Community Relations, highlighted the importance of grassroots participation — from fishermen to circular economy entrepreneurs.
As the heart of the Coral Triangle and a maritime cultural icon of Indonesia, Bali was chosen not only for its natural beauty but also for its symbolism as guardian of the seas. The InterContinental Bali Resort provides an ideal setting for global leaders to chart the course toward a sustainable ocean future.
With its spirit of cross-sector collaboration, Bali Ocean Days 2026 is expected to generate concrete steps toward a regenerative blue economy — from Bali, for the world.
Source: SWA
Feat Image: via Jimbaran Convention Center