20 Dec Showcasing Global and Local Cultural Approaches to Coral Conservation at International Conference on Sustainable Coral Reefs (ICSCR) 2024
CTC spotlighted the crucial role of cultural heritage and local wisdom in coral reef conservation during its side event, “Global and Local Culture, Capacity Building for Coral Issues”. Held on December 14, 2024, as part of the International Conference on Sustainable Coral Reefs 2024 in Manado, Indonesia, the event brought together conservation leaders, experts, and grassroots champions to discuss innovative solutions for protecting the Coral Triangle—home to the richest marine biodiversity on Earth.
Over 70 participants, alongside 30 school children, gathered at the Grand Kawanua, Novotel, to explore how time-honored traditions and modern conservation practices can work hand in hand to sustain marine ecosystems. Opening the event, Executive Director of Coral Triangle Center, Rili Djohani, emphasized that culture is a powerful bridge between people and nature, saying, “By weaving traditional wisdom with modern conservation efforts, we can protect coral reefs more effectively.”
The event was marked by dynamic discussions, highlighting stories of cultural resilience and innovation from across the Coral Triangle region. BRIN Senior Researcher, Dr. Regina Melianawati Sudjono, shared insights on SASI, a centuries-old practice in Maluku that regulates marine resource use and has proven vital in sustaining local fisheries. Similarly, Walter Oliviera Soares, a Lecturer at the National University of Timor-Leste, described the Tara Bandu system, a cultural law revitalized to manage marine habitats and strengthen community stewardship.
From the Philippines, Program Manager, Evelyn Deguit, showcased grassroots conservation efforts in Central Visayas, where education and cultural values inspire communities to care for their reefs. Meanwhile, Marine Habitat Manager of WWF Malaysia, Choo Poh Leem, shared how local knowledge in Sabah empowers communities in Pulau Omadal and Berungus to lead marine habitat management efforts. Representing Papua New Guinea, Sea Women of Melanesia Coordinator, Jacintha Jonathan, highlighted the role of women as key advocates for coral reef protection through education and leadership.
Closer to home, inspiring stories from Indonesia underscored the country’s rich cultural diversity and its deep connection to marine conservation. Head of Alor Marine Protected Area, Muhammad Saleh Goro, and Manager of Raja Ampat MPA Unit, Syafri, shared examples of how community-led initiatives in Alor and Raja Ampat are successfully blending traditional practices with modern reef management. Program Manager at YKAN, M. Imran Amin, presented cultural education initiatives under the USAID Kolektif Project, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. Local Leader, Sandra Tjan, further emphasized the value of storytelling in preserving marine knowledge, while conservationists Purwanto and Noni Tuharea shared impactful efforts from Maluku, such as the Kalesang Dugong Project in Lease Islands and community-driven protection in Buano Islands.
The day culminated with a celebration of youth engagement, showing how education and art can inspire the next generation of coral guardians. Education and Outreach Coordinator at CTC, Herni Hastutie and Farhan Wali Bachtier, with support from Manengkel Solidaritas, introduced children to marine conservation through interactive activities as part of CTC’s Ocean Keeper Club. Participants were captivated by the screening of Wayang Samudra, a cultural storytelling initiative that brings to life the importance of coral reefs, blending environmental education with traditional art forms.
Throughout the event, speakers and participants reinforced the message that science alone is not enough to protect the Coral Triangle’s reefs. As Senior Program Manager at CTC, Dr. Hesti Widodo concluded, “Local knowledge and traditions hold the keys to resilience. By empowering communities and recognizing the value of cultural heritage, we can build stronger, more sustainable solutions for coral reef conservation.”
The exchange of ideas and best practices, during the side event, underscored the significance of community-driven conservation models. By embracing cultural diversity and traditional ecological knowledge, the event showcased how these approaches can complement modern science in safeguarding coral reefs. It was a clear call to action for all stakeholders to value and incorporate cultural heritage into their conservation efforts, ensuring a holistic and sustainable future for coral ecosystems.
Writer: Asia Salsabilla
Photos: CTC
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