As we close 2024, we celebrate the commitment of fishers from Bokan Kepulauan Sub-District, Banggai Laut, Central Sulawesi, and Talaga Raya Sub-District, Buton Tengah, Southeast Sulawesi. These fishers have pledged to adopt nets, an environmentally friendly fishing techniques, as part of their dedication to sustainable practices. These marine aquarium fishers recently attended their first-ever training program focused on sustainable fishing.
For many, the journey of a colorful fish from reef to tank is a mystery. For Indonesian fishers, it’s a livelihood facing mounting challenges. To address this, LINI, in collaboration with RARE Indonesia, are working directly with fishers to improve their methods and protect the coral reefs that serve as vital habitats for aquarium fish.
From December 1st to 3rd, a training program on sustainable practices for capturing and handling marine aquarium fish took place at the LINI Aquaculture and Training Center (LATC) in Les Village, Buleleng. The training program aimed to address challenges in the marine aquarium fish trade by promoting environmentally friendly fishing techniques. The training was led by experienced marine aquarium fishers from the Mina Lestari fisher group, including Gede Ariawan, Nengah Arsana, Made Partiana and Gede Artanegara, alongside representative from Indonesia Ornamental Fish Exporters(INOFE)/Cahaya Baru and LINI. Participants included nine fishers from Bokan Kepulauan Sub-district and Telaga Raya Sub-district, two village buyers, a representative from the Territorial Use Rights in Fisheries (TURF) program of Talaga Raya, and a representative from the Department of Fisheries of Central Buton.
The training covered several essentials topics, including:
- Introduction and construction of environmentally friendly fishing gear, such as nets and scoops
- Hands-on practice in capturing marine aquarium fish using these methods
- Proper post-capture handling and packing techniques
- Safe diving practices
Participants expressed gratitude for the new knowledge they gained and pledged to use nets and scoops after returning to their villages. The hope is that these fishers will share their newfound skills with others in their communities creating a ripple effect of positive change. This initiative aims to improve the quality of fish, the well-being of fishers, and safeguard Indonesia’s coral reefs.
This training represents a significant step toward advancing Indonesia’s marine aquarium fish industry by supporting better fish quality, fisher well-being, and the health of marine ecosystems.
Happy Holidays from all of us at LINI!
By Ryannyka Dwi Astuti, Eveline Kurniati and Gayatri Reksodihardjo-Lilley
