On November 30, 2024, Universitas Padjadjaran conducted a community outreach program on the East Coast of Pangandaran focused on addressing bycatch and its connection to overfishing and destructive fishing practices. The activity engaged local fishers and coastal communities in discussions about the ecological impacts of unintentionally caught marine species, the long-term risks posed by unsustainable fishing, and practical mitigation strategies to reduce bycatch in daily operations. Through field demonstrations and interactive education sessions, participants learned about selective fishing gear, responsible handling practices, and the importance of reporting unregulated catches. This outreach initiative strengthened community awareness and aligned with national efforts to combat overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, while promoting sustainable marine resource stewardship along the Pangandaran coastline.
In addition the Student Association of Fisheries (HIMIKAN) and the Master of Marine Conservation Program at Universitas Padjadjaran held the “Coastal Conservation Journey” at Batu Hiu Beach, Pangandaran, on November 23, 2024. The initiative was organized in collaboration with Garda Animalia, Yayasan Raksa Bintana, Alshad Ahmad, and Kelompok Cipta Asri Pantai Selatan, bringing together students, conservationists, and local community members. The program was driven by growing concern over the declining population of sea turtles, which face major threats from overfishing, pollution, illegal trade, and habitat loss. Participants took part in various conservation activities, including sea pandan planting, marine vegetation propagation, coastal clean-up, and the release of baby turtles (tukik) into their natural habitat.
Before the turtle release, Yayasan Raksa Bintana led an educational session on sea turtle conservation, explaining the ecological importance of these species and the urgent need to protect them. The sea pandan and vegetation planting aimed to strengthen coastal ecosystems, prevent erosion, and enhance shoreline resilience against climate change. The beach clean-up also raised awareness about marine pollution and its link to the degradation of marine biodiversity. The event successfully engaged dozens of Unpad students and local residents, fostering a collective sense of environmental responsibility.
Through this program, Unpad emphasized the importance of sustainable marine resource management and the active involvement of youth in marine conservation. The Coastal Conservation Journey exemplifies how education, research, and community collaboration can unite to safeguard Indonesia’s rich coastal and marine ecosystems for future generations.
