In this working paper, the authors undertook a review and analysis of the legal, institutional and policy framework of coastal resources management in Indonesia as well as the patterns of resource use of the country's coastal and marine resources. In addition, they have also reviewed and identified the role of stakeholders in coastal resources management. Finally, the authors discussed the contribution of religion, traditional values, beliefs and practices to effective resource management. The authors envisaged that by reviewing and analysing the legal, institu tional and policy framework of marine and coastal management a comprehensive understanding of laws and regulations, including traditional ones, will result.