Perception and Participation of Local Communities in Sea Cucumber (Holothuroidea) Resources Management in Duroa Island, Tual City, Maluku

Abstract

Sea cucumber (Holothuroidea) populations in various coastal areas, including Duroa Island, Tual City, Maluku Province, have decreased significantly due to overexploitation and weak management systems. These problems are exacerbated by the lack of local community awareness of the importance of conservation and low participation in the management of these resources. This study evaluates the perception and participation of local communities in the management of sea cucumber resources in Duroa Island. This study provides local wisdom-based recommendations to strengthen the ecological and economic sustainability of coastal communities. This research used a case study method with a qualitative approach. Primary data were collected through structured interviews and closed questionnaires to 58fishermen selected using purposive sampling method. Data were analyzed using a Likert scale to assess community perception and participation. The results showed that 83% of the community had a low to moderate level of knowledge regarding the ecological and economic benefits of sea cucumbers. 52% of respondents supported the re implementation of sasi laut, a local wisdom-based management system that has been suspended since 2015 due to leadership conflicts. Community participation in management was also low, with 78% of respondents reporting minimal involvement. Key constraints identified included a lack of education, training in catch processing and the absence of specialized fishermen groups for sea cucumber management. This study recommends strengthening local institutions through revitalizing sasi laut, increasing community capacity through continuous training and extension, and establishing fishermen groups based on sea cucumber resource management A collaborative approach that integrates local wisdom with adaptive policies can be a strategic solution to ensure ecosystem sustainability and improve the welfare of coastal communities. These results make a significant contribution to the development of community-based conservation in Indonesia’s coastal areas.