A WINNING MILESTONE FOR KEI KECIL CONSERVATION

Written by: Novita Eka Syaputri (Sunda Banda Seascape Communication and Campaign Assistant)

A new 150,000 ha of ocean sanctuary in Southeast Maluku Regency of Maluku Province is announced by Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF). Kei Kecil Island and the surrounding waters of Southeast Maluku Regency – home to many of threatened marine species including migratory whales and leatherback turtles – secured its status in February 2016 through MMAF Decree No 6 Year 2016.
 
As a group of islands in the eastern side of Sunda Banda Seascape, Kei Kecil plays an important role in underpinning the sustainability of the nation's fishery. In 2012, the Governor of Southeast Maluku and three Ratschap (local king) sealed the deal to reserve the area for MPA. Through their agreement, they are  demonstrating sustainable use of the marine resources by the indigenous communities which incorporates the ecological aspect and livelihood of the locals.
 
Part of the Coral Triangle, Kei Kecil significantly supports the sustainability of world’s ecosystem. Kei Kecil is feeding grounds and migration corridors for Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), or locally known as “Tabob”. Apart from its ecological abundant, Kei Kecil marine and coastal areas also provide livelihood for the local communities, through seaweed mariculture and reef fish fishing ground. The beauty of Kei Kecil marine and coastal areas also lure the travelers curiosity.
 
There are many seaweed mariculture areas in Kei Kecil, particularly Cottonii species (Kappaphycus alvarezii) in Nai Island. In Nai Island, 71 households relies on cottonii seaweed production which reaches up to 272.64 tons per year or 3.3% of the total seaweed production in Southeast Maluku District in 2014.
 
WWF’s long journey in the development of district based MPA started in 2004, and the establishment of Kei Kecil as new MPA is priceless milestone for the conservation of the Western part of Kei Kecil and the surrounding marine area. The Government of Indonesia has taken the leap by committing to preserve its ecological, economical, and cultural treasures through the target to establish of 20 million hectares of marine protected areas by 2020.