Demak, Central Java, Oct. 19 -- Indonesia has launched a program to protect Java's northern coast, or Pantura, from coastal erosion and land subsidence while supporting coastal livelihoods, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) said on Monday.

The program is part of a government strategy to strengthen coastal communities' resilience by combining physical infrastructure with nature-based solutions, such as mangrove restoration.

Speaking at the launch of a demonstration site in Demak, Central Java, AHY stressed Pantura's strategic role in the economy, saying the region contributes about 28 percent of Indonesia's gross domestic product.

The area also hosts strategic industrial est...