One of the speakers is Abdi Wunanto Hasan, an alumnus of Marine Science at Hasanuddin University, class of 2007, who has extensive experience in shark conservation. He has spent more than 10 years in the waters of Papua working on coastal and marine conservation.
MARITIMEPOSTS.COM – The participation of Konservasi Indonesia in global forums is once again affirmed through its active involvement in the Sharks International Sri Lanka 2026 conference, which will take place from May 4–8, 2026, in Colombo.
This forum is recognized as one of the largest conferences in the world dedicated specifically to sharks, rays, and other cartilaginous fish (chondrichthyes), bringing together hundreds of scientists, conservation practitioners, and policymakers from various countries.
At this conference, which is held every four years, Konservasi Indonesia will be represented by two speakers presenting the latest research from Indonesian waters.
Their presence not only highlights Indonesia’s contribution to the advancement of marine science but also strengthens the country’s position in the global discourse on marine species conservation, particularly whale sharks.
The two speakers are Iqbal Herwata and Abdi Wunanto Hasan.
Iqbal Herwata will present research on long-term satellite tracking to understand the seasonal patterns and behavior of whale sharks.
He will deliver a presentation titled “Long-term satellite tracking reveals seasonal and behavioral niche partitioning in Whale Sharks.”
This research uses long-term satellite tracking to understand seasonal patterns and behavioral ecology of whale sharks, particularly how they partition habitats or ecological niches.
Iqbal Herwata serves as Focal Species Conservation Senior Manager at Konservasi Indonesia.
Meanwhile, Abdi Wunanto Hasan will present a study on habitat segregation and residency patterns of whale sharks in the Sunda and Sahul Shelves, based on satellite tracking data.
His presentation is titled “Habitat segregation and residency of whale sharks between the Sunda and Sahul Shelves: evidence from fin-mount satellite tracking data,” which explains differences in habitat use and residency patterns of whale sharks across these two major regions based on satellite tags attached to their fins.
Notably, Abdi Wunanto Hasan’s participation carries special significance. He is an alumnus of Marine Science at Hasanuddin University (class of 2005) and is now active internationally as a conservation researcher.
His involvement demonstrates that graduates from Indonesian universities are capable of making significant contributions to global research, while also serving as inspiration for younger generations in the field of marine science.
Through this forum, Konservasi Indonesia not only shares research findings but also strengthens international collaboration networks in efforts to protect increasingly threatened marine species.
This conference serves as an important platform for knowledge exchange, the introduction of science-based innovations, and the promotion of more effective policies to sustain global marine ecosystems.
Event Information
Event Name:
Sharks International Sri Lanka 2026
Theme:
Marine conservation with a focus on sharks, rays, and cartilaginous fish (chondrichthyes).
Date:
Monday, May 4 – Friday, May 8, 2026
Location:
Colombo
Event Description:
Sharks International is an international conference held every four years and is recognized as one of the largest global forums in shark and related species conservation. The event brings together more than 800 scientists, conservation practitioners, and policymakers from over 80 countries.
The main objective of the conference is to share the latest research findings, strengthen global collaboration, and promote science-based policies in support of marine ecosystem protection.
Indonesia’s Involvement:
The event involves Konservasi Indonesia as one of the contributing organizations in this international forum.
Visual Description of Promotional Material:
The promotional material features an underwater scene with several sharks swimming in deep blue waters, creating a dramatic atmosphere while emphasizing marine life. The presence of small, contrasting-colored fish adds visual dynamism, reinforcing the message of biodiversity and the importance of maintaining balance in marine ecosystems.
