CODRS Data Collection and TURF-reserve Initiation are being strengthened in Sumba to support a sustainable fisheries policy

In an effort to enhance science-based and community-driven fisheries management in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), the National Marine Conservation Area Center (BKKPN) Kupang, the NTT Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office (DKP), and Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) convened a meeting titled “Fisheries Data Collection Through the Crew Operated Data Recording System (CODRS) and the Initiation of Territorial Use Rights for Fishing (TURF)-reserve in Sumba Island” on Friday, October 17, 2025, in Waingapu, East Sumba.

Savu Sea National Marine Park (TNP) is a crucial area for snapper and grouper fisheries in Indonesia’s Fishery Management Area (WPPNRI) 573. The park’s sustainability is ensured through a joint collaboration involving various stakeholders. Savu Sea is also renowned for its resilience to climate change, encompassing the waters of West Nusa Tenggara, the Flores Sea, and East Nusa Tenggara. It holds the distinction of being one of the 50 most climate-resilient coral reefs globally.

However, despite this potential, increasing fishing pressure continues to pose challenges. Therefore, synergy among stakeholders in managing marine conservation areas and practising sustainable fisheries has become an urgent need. Through this meeting, stakeholders aim to strengthen data-driven governance and promote the direct engagement of coastal communities, particularly small-scale fishers, as the primary actors in managing marine resources.

Imam Fauzi, Head of BKKPN Kupang, emphasised the critical need for systematic and science-based fisheries data collection to guarantee effective conservation policies. "We will obtain current data from fishers to create a comprehensive overview of resource utilization in the Savu Sea. This information is crucial for setting accurate and sustainable management policies," he said.

He mentioned that this data system not only facilitates the management of fish resources but also strengthens the efforts to safeguard marine conservation areas under the management of BKKPN Kupang. He elaborated, stating, “We perceive this approach as a bridge between fisheries activities and conservation, as both are interdependent in maintaining the equilibrium of the ecosystem.”

Meanwhile, Abdul Wahid, the Acting Head of the Regional Marine and Fisheries Office of NTT Province, expressed his support for this collaborative initiative. “The involvement of coastal communities is crucial for sustainable fisheries management. This approach empowers fishers by making them not only recipients of policies but also integral to the data collection and management system,” he stated.

He emphasized that this participatory approach helps the local government create evidence-based policies while protecting the livelihoods of fishers. “We hope this model can be successfully implemented in other regions within NTT Province, ensuring the continued sustainability of fishery resources without compromising the community's livelihoods,” he said.

YKAN Strengthens CODRS Method and Initiates TURF-reserve in Sumba

Glaudy Perdanahardja, YKAN’s Sustainable Fisheries Senior Manager, explained that the CODRS method is an innovative approach that combines fisher participation with advanced data recording technology.

“Since its inception in 2014, CODRS has proven its efficacy in facilitating fishers’ contributions to a reliable scientific data system. Fishers are mandated to photograph each fish catch, either onboard or at the landing site. This extensive data collection forms the basis for analyzing the status of fish stocks within the designated fishing area,” he explained.

Beyond enhancing data accuracy, Glaudy highlighted the positive social implications of this approach. It raises fishers’ awareness of the significance of sustainable fisheries. He explained that by understanding their own catch data, fishers are more inclined to incorporate conservation principles into their daily routines.

Based on CODRS data, YKAN and its stakeholders will develop a community-based fisheries management plan using the Territorial Use Rights for Fishing-reserve (TURF-reserve) approach to strengthen fisheries management within the TNP Savu Sea.

“The TURF-reserve initiative empowers fishers to actively participate in the decision-making process regarding fisheries management within their designated fishing areas. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership among fishers and management units, enabling them to work together strategically to maintain the ecological sustainability of the conservation area through partnerships.” Glaudy explained.

Through multi-stakeholder partnerships, it is anticipated that participatory data collection and TURF-reserve initiatives in Laut Sawu will establish an integrated fisheries management model that balances ecological, economic, and social aspects. This approach aligns with national efforts to strengthen science-based conservation and improve the resilience of Indonesia’s marine ecosystems amid growing pressures on fishery resources.