Articles

Cultural Determinants of Integrated Coastal Fisheries Management Achieving the Blue Economy of the Bononaro Coastal Community of Timor-Leste

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Long-term economic development of Timor-Leste can be guaranteed its sustainability by relying on productive sectors, namely fisheries resource management, since the last two decades after independence it has only relied on non-renewable oil and natural gas and is predicted to run out in the next two or three decades. Therefore, economic development based on the blue economy is absolutely necessary. According to data from the last 10 years, 68,413 households or 33% of all households in Timor-Leste involved in some form of fisheries activity. Of these fisheries households, 58,473 (85%) are involved in aquaculture, 3,823 households (6%) are involved in fishing alone, and 6,117 households (9%). Now as a member of PEMSEA, Timor-Leste has adopted the 2012 Changwon Declaration and compromised to optimize the implementation of SDS-SEA. Therefore, the country adopted the SDS-SEA Implementation Plan for the region as a timely and important next step in to achieve a marine-based blue economy. This study aims to 1). Find out how Cultural Factors in Integrated Management of Fisheries Sub-sector in Bobonaro Municipality, 2). Find out how Integrated Management of Fisheries Sub-sector affects the livelihoods of coastal communities in Bobonaro Municipality can be an important pillar in the transition of Timor-Leste’s blue economy development, 3). Find out how local cultural wisdom (Tara-Bandu) as part of the multifunctional system of Fisheries Sub-sector development in Bobonaro. The research method used in this study is a descriptive quantitative analysis of Contribution and participation in Tara-bandu traditional and cultural ceremonies. The results of this study are expected to find the right method to support the development of the blue economy in Timor-Leste, in an effective and efficient way to create a prosperous and healthy coastal community.

Clean Seas and Healthy Communities as a Manifestation of Sustainable Management with the Goal of a Maritime Future in Malacca, Malaysia

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Marine and coastal health are critical to the environment and well-being of communities that depend on these ecosystems. This study describes a community service initiative conducted by Mahsa University, Malaysia, and Universitas Warmadewa, Indonesia, aimed at cleaning up Klabang Beach in Malacca. The activity involved over 300 participants from various backgrounds and included education on the impacts of marine pollution. In addition to the cleanup, the event also hosted workshops to raise community awareness on the importance of sustainable practices, such as recycling and waste reduction. Survey results showed an increase in community knowledge about marine pollution from 40% to 80%. The mangrove planting activity also succeeded in planting 1,000 seedlings with a survival rate of 85%. Through this collaboration, participants not only contributed to environmental cleanliness but also strengthened relationships between communities. This initiative is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 14 on life below water, and supports the blue economy through sustainable practices that improve the quality of life for coastal communities.