Aceh Singkil, June 2026 — Yayasan Fifan Laut Nusantara, as a strategic partner of Loka Kawasan Konservasi Perairan Nasional (LKKPN) Pekanbaru, has expressed its support for the designation of priority dugong conservation areas in Kepulauan Banyak, Aceh Singkil Regency.
The designation is part of a collaborative effort to strengthen the protection of dugong habitats and seagrass ecosystems, which serve as the main feeding grounds for this protected marine mammal.
The priority conservation areas were officially designated through the Decree of the Director of Species and Genetic Conservation, Number B.1017/DJPK.3/PRL.430/VI/2026. The decision was based on the results of a collaborative field survey conducted by LKKPN Pekanbaru, BRIN, BKSDA Aceh, and Yayasan Fifan Laut Nusantara.
The survey assessed the condition of seagrass ecosystems, monitored dugong populations, and gathered input from coastal communities who have direct interaction with seagrass habitats and marine resources in the area.
The Director of Yayasan Fifan Laut Nusantara stated that collaboration among government institutions, conservation organizations, academics, and local communities is essential to ensuring the survival of dugong populations, which currently face various threats, including habitat degradation, unsustainable fishing practices, and disturbances to coastal ecosystems.
“The designation of these priority dugong conservation areas is an important step to ensure that dugong habitats remain protected. We hope this initiative will increase public awareness and support the sustainable management of marine resources,” the Director said.
Through this designation, the identified priority areas are expected to serve as a foundation for the development of dugong conservation programs and the protection of seagrass meadows in Kepulauan Banyak. This effort is also expected to encourage stronger multi-stakeholder collaboration in safeguarding marine biodiversity and supporting sustainable coastal management in Aceh Singkil.