The waters surrounding Teon, Nila, and Serua (TNS) Islands have long been known for their rich marine life and extraordinary natural beauty. Beneath their surface lie vibrant coral reefs, seagrass meadows that support countless species, important fish spawning grounds, and habitats frequented by hammerhead sharks. For generations, these waters have sustained coastal communities and supported local livelihoods.
Today, these valuable ecosystems have gained stronger protection.
On September 2, 2026, the Government of Indonesia took a significant step forward in safeguarding the nation's marine biodiversity by officially designating the Marine Protected Area (MPA) of Teon, Nila, and Serua through Decree of the Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries of the Republic of Indonesia No. 67 of 2026.
Covering an area of 683,826.89 hectares, the newly established protected area marks an important milestone in Indonesia's ongoing efforts to conserve its marine resources while ensuring that they continue to provide benefits for future generations.
The designation reflects a recognition that healthy oceans are essential for both nature and people. Beyond protecting critical ecosystems such as coral reefs and seagrass beds, the TNS Marine Protected Area is designed to support sustainable fisheries, allowing fish populations to replenish and ecosystems to remain productive over the long term.
TNS is also home to unique natural features and exceptional biodiversity that make it an attractive destination for marine tourism. With effective management, the area has the potential to create new economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable tourism and responsible fisheries, while maintaining the ecological functions that make these waters so valuable.
More than a conservation milestone, the establishment of the TNS Marine Protected Area represents an investment in the future. It demonstrates how protecting nature and supporting community well-being can go hand in hand, ensuring that the rich marine heritage of Teon, Nila, and Serua continues to thrive for generations to come.
For YKAN, the designation of the TNS Marine Protected Area is more than the issuance of a policy. It marks an important milestone in a long journey built through the collaboration of many partners committed to safeguarding the rich marine resources of Teon, Nila, and Serua. As a development partner that has supported the establishment of this protected area from the very beginning, YKAN welcomes the issuance of the Ministerial Decree as a significant step toward more sustainable, science-based marine management, strengthened by close collaboration among government, local communities, and other stakeholders.
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