On October 20, 2025, CTC conducted a socialization event on Neira Island, Banda Islands, Maluku, to introduce the new Kalesang Banda Project. The initiative marks an important milestone in strengthening community-based marine conservation and sustainable economic development across the Banda region continuing the work that CTC first began there in 2012. A total of 61 participants attended the event, including representatives from subdistrict and village governments, traditional leaders and institutions, community groups, women’s groups, youth representatives, and local NGOs.

The socialization was officially opened by CTC Executive Director, Rili Djohani, together with a representative from the Banda Administration Office, who struck the tifa to symbolize the start of the Kalesang Banda Project. The program continued with a presentation on the project background, objectives, implementation timeline, and the roles of various stakeholders by Project Manager Banda Sea, Rynal May Fadli.

“This initiative aims to protect Endangered, Threatened and Protected Species (ETP Species) and ecosystems while improving local livelihoods, working closely with village governments, traditional leaders, women, youth, and other local groups to ensure long-term benefits for the people of Banda,” said CTC Project Manager Banda Sea, Rynal May Fadli. He emphasized that conservation impact and economic opportunities must go hand in hand to build resilient coastal communities.

Following the presentation, participants joined a discussion session designed to identify local priorities and opportunities for collaboration. Ideas and recommendations were collected to strengthen implementation at the site level. Participants were divided into four thematic groups: 1) MPA Network, 2) ETP Species & Sustainable Fisheries, 3) Increasing Fisheries Product Value, 4) Tourism. Each group shared insights on challenges, community needs, and potential joint actions. The open and collaborative atmosphere reflected strong interest and ownership from local stakeholders.

The socialization continued in Ambon, Maluku, on October 24, 2025. Held at Santika Hotel Ambon in a hybrid format, the event brought together 49 participants representing government agencies, universities, civil society organizations, and the private sector. The event was symbolically opened by striking the tifa, led by CTC Executive Director Rili Djohani and Head of the Provincial Department of Marine and Fisheries, Dr. Erawan Asikin. 

Participants also raised several key inputs, including the need for stronger coordination between government institutions, consistent monitoring of marine resources, increased community awareness on sustainable fishing practices, and support for economic initiatives that benefit women and youth.

Through the Kalesang Banda socialization events in Neira and Ambon, CTC hopes to ensure that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of the program’s goals and contribute actively to its implementation. Building shared commitment and ownership from the early stage is expected to support long-term success, not only in conserving Banda’s marine biodiversity but also in enhancing community well-being and economic resilience.

Writers: Adam Putra, Rynal May Fadly, Purwanto

Photos: Adam Putra/CTC