Video Conference, 26 January 2026: The SEA-MaP Regional Project organized the First Stakeholder Consultation for the development of the Marine Plastics Resource Mobilization Strategy (RMS) via video conference. This workstream supports the implementation of the ASEAN Regional Action Plan for Combating Marine Debris (RAP) in the ASEAN Member States at the Planning Phase: Enabling Conditions.

The Consultation featured discussions on seeking inputs, validation, and guidance on three key areas:

• Key findings from the Stocktaking and Needs Assessment, including the regional resource mobilization landscape, financing gaps and system constraints, donor and financing partner mapping, and institutional coordination arrangements;

• Priority needs, gaps, and thematic focus areas for resource mobilization to support RAP implementation; and

• Initial inputs on coordination mechanisms and financing options to guide the development of the Resource Mobilization Strategy

The Stocktaking and Needs Assessment exercise, conducted through a desk review and online survey between November 2025 and January 2026, highlighted strong regional alignment in policies and planning related to marine plastics, while also identifying opportunities to strengthen the transition from pilot initiatives toward more scalable and sustainable systems, including through diversified financing sources and enhanced private sector engagement.

Participants also exchanged views on strengthening coordination across ASEAN mechanisms, improving data availability and monitoring processes, and enhancing recognition of the informal sector and local-level implementation needs within the marine plastic management systems.

A Second Stakeholder Consultation will be organized by SEA-MaP to present and seek further feedback on the draft Resource Mobilization Strategy and its dissemination and outreach materials. These consultations are organized to ensure that the Strategy is aligned with regional priorities and responsive to the needs of stakeholders across ASEAN, and to support effective implementation and uptake.

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