Recent events in Indonesia highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts aimed at protecting marine mammals, particularly dolphins and dugongs. On October 10, 2024, a Dugong dugon was found dead on Pariti Beach in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, raising awareness about the threats these animals face.
Victor Gustaaf Manoppo, Director General of Marine and Fisheries Management, noted that common causes of strandings include old age, disease, and human-related factors such as entanglement in fishing gear and pollution. The local community's involvement in addressing these issues reflects a growing concern for marine biodiversity.
In a related effort, Pela Village in East Kalimantan serves as a habitat for the critically endangered Mahakam Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris). This community-based initiative emphasizes the cultural significance of these dolphins, seen as symbols of ancestral ties. Residents actively participate in conservation by educating themselves and implementing measures to reduce dolphin deaths caused by fishing activities.
Research conducted by the Rare Aquatic Species of Indonesia (RASI) indicates that accidental entanglement in fishing nets accounts for a significant percentage of dolphin deaths. To combat this, the community collaborates with RASI and Pertamina Hulu Mahakam to provide acoustic pingers that help deter dolphins from dangerous areas.
Both cases underscore the importance of community engagement in conservation efforts, as local knowledge and participation are crucial for the survival of these marine species. Continued education and protective measures are vital to ensuring that these unique marine mammals thrive in their natural habitats.