There is an area in the world spanning only 1.6% of its oceans but comprising 53% of the extent of its coral reefs (hosting 76% of all known coral species and 37% of all known coral reef fish species), the largest extent of mangrove forests, and some of the most important spawning and juvenile growth areas of its major commercial fish species. This is the Coral Triangle, the ‘epicenter of the world’s global marine biodiversity’. Indonesia is arguably at the center of the Coral Triangle, in economic, ecological and, recently through the Coral Triangle Initiative, political terms. How does Indonesia compare with its neighbors in the Coral Triangle? What are the challenges and strategic opportunities for regional collaboration that can lead to improved well-being of the people in the region? What role can Indonesia play? The presentation will critically discuss these issues.