On the Malalayang coast, fishing communities face many challenges that threaten their livelihoods and lives. Climate change, unfair government policies, and reclamation carried out by investors are big challenges. However, thanks to assistance and support from the ANTRA Community, now they are starting to gain new hope.
In 2021, Malalayang coastal communities will be faced with Building Use Rights (HGB) certificates issued for areas above sea water, without prior land filling. This creates uncertainty and fear of losing their homes and sources of livelihood. In addition, the reclamation that has been going on for almost a decade has forced fishermen to go to sea further, from a fishing distance of 0.5 – 1 mile to 2 – 4 miles, which has an impact on the community's catch, which has a big influence on the increasing fuel expenditure of ships.
Through discussions and the preparation of learning modules, the ANTRA Community helps fishing communities understand and face these challenges. The ANTRA Community assists the community in repairing the basecamp at the Malalayang Coastal Fishermen's Forum (FNPPM) with funding assistance from the Nusantara Fund. This process not only strengthens physical infrastructure, but also builds enthusiasm and togetherness in facing change, as well as the next generation of young people for the advocacy movement for the struggle for the coast of the Coast
The younger generation and women fishermen are the main focus of the capacity building program. Even though young generation participation challenges still exist, the ANTRA Community continues to encourage them to be actively involved in community activities. Through training and marine product processing programs, female fishermen are now able to produce products with higher selling value, such as processing fish caught into salted fish packaging. This not only increases their income but also adds value to seafood that was previously sold directly on the roadside.
Another visit we made to the Tiwoho Community (cycle-2 funding proposal assistance WALHI) also brings new inspiration and hope. Located in the Bunaken National Park conservation area, the Tiwoho Community focuses on empowering women and youth. They produce food from mangroves and bamboo weaving, despite facing challenges in finding the next generation and product legality. With support from the Nusantara Fund, the Community hopes to increase their capacity in producing high-value products and managing product legality for wider marketing.
This story of change is real evidence that with togetherness, support, and the right assistance, coastal communities can turn challenges into strengths. The ANTRA community is committed to continuing to assist and empower coastal communities, strengthen their independence and welfare, and protect their rights from the threat of unfair investment and policies. Together, we can create a brighter future for the coastal communities of North Sulawesi.
