By M Rustam H
Better Management Practice, or often refer to as BMP, is a tool which could be used to support one to exploit natural resources sustainably. In this case, reef fisheries BMP is a guide to help the fishermen to catch fish in a responsible and sustainable way. On May 25th 2014, WWF-Indonesia finally conducted a socialization on reef fisheries BMP in Ohidertutu Village in West Kei Kecil Subdistrict, Southeast Maluku. This program was attended by local traditional fishermen from the surrounding villages in Kei Kecil and a number of extension officers from local Agriculture, Fisheries, Livestock & Forestry Officer Agency. The socialization was opened by head of Kei Kecil Subdistrict, and in his opening speech he reminded the participants on how important it is to manage the fish resource wisely for the good of future generations.

The fishermen were given lessons about BMP and continued with further discussion. Afterwards, they were also asked to fill in a pre-test to get a better understanding on how far the fishermen knows about sustainable fisheries. Aside from presentation, discussion and pre-test, this program was also consist of simulation on sustainable fisheries, the purpose of this session is to help fishermen to be more aware on the direct impact caused by BMP. All of these hopefully could lead to a better management of the surrounding reef fisheries.

Reef fisheries BMP socialization in Kei Kecil was a step forward for WWF-Indonesia in their effort to maintain sustainable fisheries. Nevertheless, the socialization itself did not forced the fishermen to strictly follow the rule, but simply giving valuable informations regarding a sustainable fisheries management. The good news is they welcomed the idea with open arms and hope of further actions from WWF-Indonesia.

Translated by Imanda Pradana