The Story of Roa, Marine Management in Wayabula

On the coast of Wayabula Village, Morotai Island Regency, the sea is a source of life. The julung-julung fish, processed into roa fish, are not only sold but also support the family and village economy.

Recently, small-scale fishers have faced declining catches, high fishing costs, and unpredictable weather and environmental conditions. The establishment of conservation areas and the entry of large-scale interests into the sea have also further limited fishing space. The impact has been felt directly on household incomes.

Women then took on a crucial role. They processed roa fish traditionally—smoking it overnight, preparing bamboo, and marketing the fish. Together with the Pakativa Association, the Putri Lolaro and Forimoi women's groups strengthened existing businesses, developed products like shredded roa fish and chili sauce, and secured legal documents to make them more resilient and sustainable.

This effort isn't just about increasing income, but also about protecting the village's managed areas—bamboo forests, mangroves, seagrass beds, and coral reefs—that are a unified source of life. In Wayabula, roa fish is a story of collaborative work, economic resilience, and the mutually beneficial relationship between humans and nature.