The whale shark (Rhincodon typus), known locally as Fir’umbo in Papua, is a marine species frequently found in the waters of Triton Bay. These whale sharks have become a major tourist attraction in Kaimana Regency, primarily due to their friendly nature and slow movements, making them appealing to divers and underwater tourism enthusiasts.

Triton Bay waters of Kaimana Regency a primary site for whale shark sightings. Their presence near fishing platforms (bagan) is closely linked to local fishing activities.

With funding from the CFI Indonesia grant, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has supported research efforts on whale sharks by facilitating the Fisheries Service in organizing a Forum Group Discussion (FGD). This initiative aims to; Study the bioecology of whale sharks in Triton Bay and the structure of pelagic habitats in WPP 715;  Collect the data; Analyze the perceptions of local communities and tourists regarding whale shark ecotourism development; Formulate strategies for developing whale shark ecotourism in the waters of Triton Bay.

The FGD, held at the end of 2024, revealed that whale sharks generally surface in areas with many bagans (fishing platforms), where nets contain large amounts of fish. Their presence is influenced by specific environmental conditions, including sea surface temperatures of 28–31°C, salinity levels of 33–34‰, and water clarity ranging from 7 to 12 meters.

A total of 30 whale shark sightings were recorded, with 15 individuals identified. All were males with body lengths ranging from 3 to 6 meters, belonged to the young (immature) category, and generally uninjured. Whale sharks forage and surface around the charts from early morning to midday with a duration of between 15 and 30 minutes.

Local communities generally responded positively to the development of whale shark ecotourism. Tourists, 80% of whom are foreign tourists, also perceive that whale shark tourism attractions in the waters of Triton Bay to be either interesting or very interesting. However, there are still some aspects of management that need to be improved, such as the availability of information services, tour guides, and the level of visitor comfort. Some strategies that need to be implemented for the development of this tour include increasing the capacity of human resources, providing supporting infrastructure, coordination and synergy with stakeholders, increasing public awareness, and developing cultural tourism attractions as support.

During the whale shark data collection FGD, the Regional Secretary of Kaimana Regency, Donald R. Wakum, reemphasized the importance of maintaining ocean cleanliness. He urged all levels of society to work together to overcome the problem of plastic waste that threatens the sustainability of whale sharks.

“We must protect the sea, because from the sea we get life and blessings, as most of Kaimana people depend their livelihood on the sea through fishing and selling fish,” said Donald R. Wakum, Secretary of Kaimana Regency.

The existence of whale sharks in Kaimana waters is currently facing a serious threat due to marine debris pollution. Responding to this condition, the Kaimana Regional Secretary reminded the public to stop littering, especially into the sea.

The threat of marine ecosystem damage continues to grow and will become increasingly difficult to prevent if people keep disposing of waste in the ocean. Marine life is the first to suffer the consequenoces. Microplastics ingested by marine organisms can tear their intestines and damage their digestive systems. In addition to endangering whale sharks, marine waste also harms the entire marine ecosystem. Plastic waste that settles on the ocean floor can damage coral reefs, which serve as a crucial habitat for various marine species, including whale sharks.

“I urge all of us to commit to protecting the ocean, as plastic waste remains a serious issue that must be addressed for the survival of our future generations," he said.