The Jakarta Provincial Government has distributed 10,684 coral seedlings to four islands in the Thousand Islands as part of efforts to restore and protect marine ecosystems. The initiative, carried out by the Technical Management Unit of the Marine Cultivation and Conservation Center, covers community-based marine protected areas on Tidung, Pari, Payung, and Lancang Islands. Since the program began earlier this year, 4,000 seedlings have been planted on Tidung Island, 3,484 on Payung Island, and 1,600 each on Pari and Lancang Islands. The program represents an expansion from previous years, when coral transplantation focused mainly on Tidung Island.
Head of the center, Andi Dala Jemma, said the expanded distribution reflects the Jakarta Provincial Government’s commitment to preserving marine ecosystems. Coral reefs play an important role in supporting marine biodiversity while also sustaining the livelihoods of coastal communities. Their restoration is expected to improve fishery productivity and strengthen Jakarta’s marine tourism potential. Healthy coral ecosystems are therefore viewed as an environmental investment that can also contribute to the economic welfare of fishermen and tourism workers.
The community-based marine protected area group Karang Mutiara on Lancang Island welcomed the government’s support. The group received 400 coral substrates along with 1,600 coral seedlings to support restoration efforts in the surrounding waters. Group leader Damiyati said the assistance would help accelerate the recovery of the local underwater ecosystem. The group also committed to caring for the transplanted corals so they can grow successfully.
The Jakarta administration hopes the expanded coral transplantation program will create long-term ecological benefits across the Thousand Islands. Beyond protecting biodiversity, healthier reefs can provide breeding grounds for marine life and support coastal economic activities. Expanding restoration efforts across several islands also strengthens community involvement in protecting marine resources. The program ultimately seeks to ensure that environmental conservation and the welfare of coastal communities can develop together.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
