Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The environmental affairs ministry will increase the allocation of special funds for a national environmental campaign in 2013 to improve the public`s awareness about environmental problems, a minister said.

"In addition to the Allocation of Special Funds (DAK), we will also provide financial assistance for an environmental campaign for the public," Environmental Affairs Minister Balthasar Kambuaya said here on Thursday at the closing of the National Congress on Environmental Protection and Management 2012.

He said his ministry`s working programs in 2013 must yield concrete results to support development by adding new infrastructure, rehabilitating the environment and land, and improving capacity building and people`s empowerment.

The government is obliged to provide a healthy environment with clean air and water for the people, and this could be fulfilled with adequate funds and a strong commitment, Balthasar said.

"I have given instructions that in 2013 we will have to be focused and prioritize what we are doing. Focus and priority are important. Therefore, I invite everyone to review our programs and make a list of priorities," he noted.

He also called for better coordination between the central government and regional administrations in managing the environment.

Also, the three-day National Congress on Environmental Protection and Management 2012 has issued recommendations on the environmental affairs ministry`s working programs in 2013.
(F001/INE)

Editor: Ella Syafputri
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