To support the proposal for a new protected area in South Buru, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), in collaboration with the Maluku Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office (DKP), conducted a socio-economic survey in the Proposed New Protected Area located in Kepala Madan District, South Buru Regency. The survey was funded through a grant from CFI Indonesia and aimed to collect the necessary data for preparing the initial documentation and zoning plan for the new Marine Protected Area (MPA).

The survey took place over 10 days, from August 25 to September 3, 2024, covering nine villages within the proposed protected area and two villages outside of it. Data collection focused on socio-economic aspects and community perceptions regarding the importance of protecting fishery resources.

"The survey results show that the majority of the surveyed communities have a high awareness of the importance of marine resource conservation. However, some fishers remain concerned about the planned relocation of fishing areas," said Mentari. She emphasized the need for public consultations involving all relevant stakeholders to collaboratively determine the zoning of the protected area.

Before the field survey, a two-day workshop was held on August 19-20, 2024, at Grand Avira Hotel in Ambon, involving various stakeholders.

The field survey also included researchers from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Bogor Agricultural University (IPB). The ecological survey conducted in August and September successfully identified and analyzed the conditions of mangrove, seagrass, and coral reef ecosystems. Additionally, the survey examined the potential presence of sea turtles and their nesting beaches along the coastal waters of Kepala Madan.

Public Consultation II for the Proposed Protected Area

The Maluku DKP continued the efforts to establish the Buru Selatan Protected Area by holding the second Public Consultation at the district level for the proposed protected area in the waters of Kepala Madan, Buru Selatan District, Maluku Province.

The Head of the Marine Spatial Management Division of Maluku DKP, Ali Tualeka, stated that after conducting the surveys, several key aspects have been determined. These include the designation of core zones which spread across seven locations, a limited-use zone for sustainable fisheries and tourism activities, and other zones designated for ecosystem rehabilitation efforts.

The Assistant for Economic Affairs and Development of the Buru Selatan District Secretary, Hadi Longa, who was present at the event, emphasized that the second Public Consultation required serious attention from all relevant stakeholders. "Several issues, such as environmental degradation and conflicting marine space utilization activities within the proposed Buru Selatan Protected Area, must be a serious concern for all of us as the stakeholders of this region," Longa asserted. He believes that by protecting the area, the intended goals can be achieved—namely, to protect and preserve coastal and marine resources for the present and future generations, ensuring the well-being of the community.