On February 26, 2025, CTC joined a team consisting of the Cluster VII Branch of the Marine and Fisheries Office of Maluku Province, the Marine and Fisheries Resources Surveillance (PSDKP) Team, the Kewang (customary surveillance unit), and the Pokmaswas (community surveillance group) to conduct a monthly surveillance and Resource Use Monitoring (RUM) survey in the Lease Islands Marine Conservation Area (MPA). This activity aimed to oversee the utilization of marine resources and ensure compliance with the zoning regulations of the conservation area.

As part of the monitoring efforts, the team also focused on recording the utilization of marine resources, particularly mobile activities such as fishing and tourism, as well as fixed uses like fish aggregating devices (rumpong), lift nets (bagan ikan), floating net cages (keramba jaring apung), and mooring buoys. Furthermore, the team worked on strengthening interactions between the conservation area management unit and marine resource users to foster better communication and compliance with conservation regulations.

This survey highlighted the complex nature of human activities within the MPA and the need for a comprehensive management approach that balances conservation objectives with sustainable resource use. Therefore, regular monitoring activities, installation of signage within the core zone to delineate boundaries, and socialization of regulations are crucial to inform fishers to understand the importance of protecting Lease Islands MPA.

Continuous monitoring is necessary to track changes in resource utilization patterns and assess the impact of conservation measures. Effective enforcement and community engagement initiatives are crucial to address violations. Collaboration and an adaptive management approach can ensure the MPA’s long-term health and resilience, contributing to marine biodiversity preservation and sustainable livelihoods.

Writers: Adam Putra, Gerald Istia
Photos: Gerald Istia/CTC