The marine realm is the most significant component of the Earth’s system that stabilises climate and supports human presence on Earth. However, much of the ocean is now seriously degraded, with changes and losses in the structure, function and benefits from marine systems. The impact of multiple stressors on the ocean is anticipated to keep increasing as the human population keeps growing towards an expected 9 billion by 2050. Therefore, adaptation strategies and science-informed policy responses to global change are urgently needed.

Over the last 10–15 years, marine spatial planning (MSP) has risen to become the dominant marine management paradigm. It has been widely promoted by academics, practitioners, and policymakers as a process for implementing ecosystem-based management in the marine environment, reducing user conflict, enhancing environmental protection, and facilitating maritime economies’ expansion.

The Seminar aims to highlight MSP’s actual and potential impacts on ocean sustainability by sharing perspectives and experiences from France/Europe and Malaysia/South-East Asia and focusing on transboundary issues. France and the European Union have significant expertise in MSP approaches, while Malaysia has shown interest in this area (pilot experiences and workshops) and is working on integrated maritime management.

The Seminar will highlight the following discussion themes: