GC Forwards Critical Conservation Efforts Throughout the Derawan Archipelago
Whale sharks are gentle giants located in the waters of Derawan. Their presence alone has created a tourist attraction for eager visitors who want to experience close encounters with these unique beings.
Global Conservation remains committed to preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Derawan Archipelago. Our mission focuses on protecting endangered species, conserving marine habitats, and promoting sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Through collaboration with government bodies, conservation groups, and local stakeholders, we aim to address environmental challenges and support a transition to a sustainable, legally compliant economy.
The new Berau Marine Protected Area (MPA) Task Force.
This year, GC made significant strides in our conservation efforts across the Derawan Archipelago. We began by facilitating the establishment of the Berau Marine Protected Area (MPA) Task Force, led by the Berau Regency Government Fisheries Department, followed by the Air and Water Police of Berau and East Kalimantan and the Berau Navy.
The team also engaged local fishermen, educating them about no-take zones and encouraging sustainable fishing practices. These efforts are critical to reducing illegal fishing and promoting long-term conservation.
Shark fin poachers and the dried fins are seen here at the Air and Water Police Station in Marancang, Berau.
In another major success, the joint patrol team apprehended three individuals involved in illegal fish bombing, who are now in police custody. The team also uncovered a shark fin poaching operation in the Muaras Reefs, where poachers were preparing around 100 fins for shipment to Surabaya, underscoring the ongoing threat of illegal wildlife trade.
Our turtle rangers from the MALIPE Institute for turtle protection take regular measurements of the green turtles that come up to Balembangan Island.
GC continued to protect endangered species, especially green and hawksbill turtles, on Balembangan Island. Through our support for the Maratua Peduli Penyu (MALIPE) organization, we provided essential funding and resources to ensure the ongoing protection of these vital species and their habitats.
Recognizing the need for sustainable livelihoods, GC helped local communities transition from illegal activities to eco-friendly practices. We provided financial support for sustainable fishing gear and introduced seaweed farming as an alternative livelihood. This transition, supported by the Blue Economy Team of East Kalimantan and the Asian Development Bank, equips communities with the tools they need to succeed.
GC supports local fishers on Derawan Island in procuring friendly fishing gears as our part to shift from illegal to legal activities.
To promote marine tourism, GC facilitated a visit from ABC News, bringing international attention to the Derawan Archipelago. This visit not only highlighted the area's tourism potential but also showcased the collaborative efforts to protect the region from illegal activities.
Community-driven beach clean-ups across the Derawan and Maratua Islands also reflected the strong collective commitment to preserving the archipelago's natural beauty. Supported by local communities and various agencies, these events celebrated GC’s ongoing projects.
The Governor of East Kalimantan and the Mayor of Berau endorsed GC's proposal to the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), providing strong recommendation letters that significantly boost our conservation efforts.
Aerial photography of Derawan island in Indonesia. Photo ©shutterstock.com/Wang Ding
Looking ahead, GC plans to formalize a collaboration with the East Kalimantan Fisheries and Marine Affairs Department to establish a new integrated patrol team, including the possibility of installing the M2 system in selected sites. This partnership, which will involve regional police, the navy, and the military, aims to enhance marine patrols with advanced radar systems.
GC also plans to expand turtle protection efforts to the Sangalaki and Semama Islands in collaboration with the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) of East Kalimantan. This project will install surveillance cameras, solar panels, and telecommunication tools to support ocean patrols and safeguard turtle habitats. Importantly, BKSDA is also ready to use the M2 system on one of the turtle islands. Once the formal collaboration between GC and BKSDA takes place, we hope the M2 system will be in place in 2025.
Turtle eggs for sale in the local markets are a result of poaching and is a highly unsustainable practice.
Throughout the year, GC has maintained a humanistic approach to addressing illegal activities on Derawan Island and its surrounding waters. Through close engagement with local communities, we are facilitating the transition from destructive practices to sustainable alternatives while respecting and supporting the unique characteristics of each region and its people throughout this process.
The Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Appreciates Pokdarwis' Commitment to Preserving Nature on Derawan Island
The Minister of Tourism and the Creative Economy/Head of the Tourism and Creative Economy Agency Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno expressed his appreciation to the Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) in the Tourism Village of Derawan Island, Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, for their commitment to developing tourism while maintaining environmental preservation and sustainability in the Derawan Island area.
Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno appreciated the Tourism Awareness Group (Pokdarwis) in the Derawan Island Tourism Village, Berau Regency, East Kalimantan for its commitment to developing tourism by maintaining environmental sustainability in the Derawan Island area.
While inaugurating Derawan Island as one of the top 50 best tourism villages in Indonesia at the 2024 Indonesia Tourism Village Awards (ADWI) on Tuesday (July 2, 2024), Sandiaga mentioned that this commitment is evident from the presence of representatives from WWF and Global Conservation on Derawan Island.
"This commitment to green tourism is very prominent. The presence of WWF and Global Conservation indicates that all the communities in this area are very concerned about the preservation of Derawan Island's natural environment," said Sandiaga.
The involvement of all parties in preserving and conserving Derawan Island is indeed necessary. Derawan Island is blessed with abundant natural wealth, including a rich variety of coral reefs. Various types of coral reefs thrive in its waters.
The richness of the coral reefs on this island is even comparable to those in Raja Ampat. This island boasts at least three types of coral reefs: barrier reefs, fringing reefs, and atolls. According to a previous survey, there are also about 1,051 species living beneath its waters.
"If Derawan can continue to orchestrate innovations from the government, the community, and Pokdarwis, we can jointly maintain and elevate Derawan to become a world-class destination," said Sandiaga.
"In the future, we will invite more communities, NGOs, and the media to develop green tourism on Derawan Island," he added.
Derawan Island has become a magnet for both domestic and international tourists. Its underwater natural wealth consistently captivates divers. Derawan Island, along with Raja Ampat, has earned recognition as one of Indonesia's top diving spots.
This recognition has had a positive impact on Derawan Island's tourism village revenue. Among the hundreds of villages in Berau Regency, Derawan Island is one of the highest contributors to local revenue.
"This means that tourism has successfully driven the economy and helped build the nation. Therefore, I declare the tourism village of Derawan Island as the best tourism village in Indonesia," said Sandiaga.
Menparekraf Sandiaga stated that the ADWI program does not end after the Tourism Village of Derawan Island is named the best tourism village in Indonesia, as there will be follow-up support programs in collaboration with the business sector and various government agencies.
"All of the tourism villages that have made it into the top 50 best tourism villages will receive assistance. Derawan Island is now part of the 6,016 tourism villages across Indonesia," said Sandiaga.
The Regent of Berau, Sri Juniarsih, expressed her support for the development not only of the Tourism Village of Derawan Island but also of other destinations. Berau Regency has numerous maritime tourism destinations.
"The local government will continue to provide support so that the tourism destinations in Berau Regency, including Derawan Island, can further advance and improve the welfare of the people in Berau Regency," said Sri.
Menparekraf Sandiaga had the opportunity to explore the underwater park on Derawan Island, which is home to several protected species, such as green turtles, hawksbill turtles, whales, dolphins, barracuda, and several other species.
After completing his visit to the tourism village of Derawan Island, Menparekraf proceeded to Kakaban Island, which is currently temporarily closed due to the recovery process of jellyfish.
Menparekraf then headed to Laguna Kehe Daeng for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The agenda continued with an inspection of Halo Tabung Cave's facilities, as well as snorkeling at Pratasaba Resort.
Bob Woodruff is warmly welcomed by the Mayor of Berau, H. Muharram (center). The Mayor strongly supports the works of GC and ABC in safeguarding the Derawan Archipelago.
Global Conservation Expands Efforts in the Derawan Archipelago
ABC and Global Conservation Collaboration
May 2024 commenced with the notable arrival of ABC News anchor Mr. Bob Woodruff and his team to document Global Conservation’s (GC) initiatives in the Derawan Archipelago. This visit highlighted ongoing efforts to combat illegal and destructive fishing practices and wildlife poaching. The coverage, done in collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including provincial and local governments, aimed to enhance public awareness and support for conservation efforts in the region.
Launching of SMART Ocean Patrol
The Berau Marine Protected Area (MPA) Task Force initiated the SMART Ocean Patrol, integrating efforts from water and air police, the navy, fisheries supervisors, the provincial Blue Economy team, and turtle protection rangers. This joint patrol discovered ongoing wildlife poaching, including sharks around Bilang-Bilangan Island. Importantly, the team engaged with local fishermen to educate them about the boundaries of no-take zones and encourage them to relocate their fishing activities. Continuous investigations into turtle egg smuggling yielded vital information regarding recurring illegal activities at previously identified smuggling points.
Launching of SMART Island Patrol
The Maratua Institute for Environmental Care (MPL) extended the SMART patrol to the waters around Maratua Island, focusing on comprehensive coastal and marine surveillance to deter illegal activities and enhance ecosystem protection.
Rangers from the Maratua Institute for Turtle Care (MALIPE) collecting green turtle eggs for nursery on Balembangan Island.
Support for Turtle Protection
The Maratua Institute for Turtle Protection (MALIPE) on Balembangan Island continues to support endangered species, particularly the green turtle. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to safeguard critical habitats and species within the archipelago.
Seaweed aquaculture on Maratua Island.
Transition Support for Local Communities
Addressing the root causes of illegal activities, GC assisted local communities in transitioning from illicit to sustainable practices. This involved financial support for the acquisition of eco-friendly fishing gear and the introduction of seaweed farming as an alternative livelihood. This transition is supported by the Blue Institute and the Asian Development Bank, which provide locals with the resources and training they need to shift towards environmentally friendly economic activities.
Beach Clean-Up Initiatives
Regular beach clean-ups took a festive turn with a massive coordinated effort across Derawan and Maratua Islands, celebrating GC’s projects. These activities received overwhelming support from both the local communities and various agencies, reinforcing the collective commitment to maintaining the archipelago’s natural beauty.
The Blue Economy Meeting: Enhancing Sustainable Economic Practices
A pivotal Blue Economy meeting was convened to deliberate on strategies for transitioning local economies from illegal and environmentally destructive activities to sustainable and legal practices. The session underscored the critical need for community engagement and education to facilitate this change. Discussions also explored potential funding avenues to support these transitions, emphasizing the necessity for both local and international financial support to implement sustainable economic models effectively. This meeting brought together key stakeholders from government bodies, conservation groups, and financial institutions, illustrating a unified approach to fostering the Blue Economy in the Derawan Archipelago.
