The governments of Indonesia and the United Kingdom have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to forge a robust partnership in tackling climate change. This landmark agreement underscores both nations’ unwavering commitment to accelerating a just, climate-resilient transition towards a low-carbon economy.
The significant signing ceremony took place in Belem, Brazil, on November 7, 2025. Representing Indonesia was Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, the Minister of Environment, while the United Kingdom was represented by Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Minister Hanif emphasized the profound significance of the agreement, stating, “This Indonesia-UK partnership is more than just inter-country cooperation; it is a joint declaration for the future of our planet. Indonesia stands ready to be a strategic global partner in driving tangible solutions to the climate crisis.” His remarks were made in a written statement, quoted on Sunday, November 9.
Hanif further highlighted that the MoU reinforces Indonesia’s crucial position as a hub for global climate action collaboration. He articulated the necessity of a dual approach, asserting, “Nature-based solutions and technological advancements must work in tandem to achieve significant emission reductions.”
He assured that this partnership is far from merely symbolic; instead, it is set for immediate implementation through knowledge exchange programs, joint projects, and technical training initiatives across various agencies and regions.
Echoing this sentiment, Ed Miliband commented, “By combining forces with Indonesia, we demonstrate that decisive climate action can build a brighter future for generations to come. From integrating climate policies to unlocking opportunities for innovation and prosperity, this collaboration will help us achieve our shared climate goals and prove that addressing the climate crisis can go hand-in-hand with creating decent jobs and driving economic growth.”
The comprehensive Indonesia-UK cooperation encompasses a broad spectrum of initiatives, including strengthening climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, fostering transparent carbon governance, and integrating low-carbon development strategies across all levels of government. To ensure effective and sustainable coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of these programs, both nations have also agreed to establish a Joint Steering Committee (JSC).
Through the JSC, Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment/Environmental Management Agency (KLH/BPLH) will play an active role in fostering synergy among ministries, research institutions, and local governments. Furthermore, it will work to expand cooperation in low-emission technologies and green investments, all in alignment with the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals agenda.
UK Eyes Collaboration in Energy, Carbon, and FOLU Sectors
The United Kingdom has expressed significant interest in mitigation cooperation within the energy sector, Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU), and carbon governance designed to support sustainable global supply chains. Conversely, Indonesia’s priorities include the development of its Climate Change Bill, strengthening a high-integrity carbon market, developing biodiversity credits, and facilitating carbon seller-buyer meetings to broaden access to credible international carbon trading.
Minister Hanif conveyed a strong sense of optimism, stating, “We are confident that this cooperation will accelerate the achievement of emission targets, strengthen the integrity of the carbon market, and stimulate national green economic growth. This is not merely diplomacy; it is a concrete step towards a low-emission and equitable future.”
Significantly, the MoU signing coincided with the ongoing COP30 climate conference in Belem, Brazil, where Indonesia solidified its strategic role as a leader in global climate action. During the forum, Minister Hanif announced an ambitious target: Indonesia aims for carbon transactions of up to 90 million tons of CO₂ equivalent from its forestry, marine, energy, and industrial sectors, with a potential economic value reaching Rp 15 trillion.
Minister Hanif underscored the importance of these figures, stating, “These targets are crucial for driving green economic growth and supporting equitable national mitigation efforts. Environmental diplomacy no longer concludes at the negotiation table—it is now time for concrete implementation.”
Summary
The governments of Indonesia and the United Kingdom officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 7, 2025, in Belém, Brazil, to forge a robust partnership in tackling climate change. This agreement underscores both nations’ commitment to accelerating a just, climate-resilient transition towards a low-carbon economy. Represented by Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq and Secretary of State Ed Miliband, the partnership aims to drive tangible solutions. A Joint Steering Committee will be established to ensure effective coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of initiatives.
The comprehensive cooperation includes strengthening climate mitigation and adaptation efforts, fostering transparent carbon governance, and integrating low-carbon development strategies. Key areas of interest for the UK are energy, Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU), and carbon governance, while Indonesia focuses on its Climate Change Bill and developing a high-integrity carbon market. Coinciding with COP30, Indonesia announced an ambitious target of up to 90 million tons of CO₂ equivalent carbon transactions, highlighting its strategic role as a leader in global climate action.
