Public Participation in Regulation on the Protection of Marine Resources

Abstract

This article discusses the significance of participation of the community as an el-ement of control/supervision regarding the conservation of marine resources. This is particularly crucial, considering that Pohuwato Regency, which is located in the Tomini Bay area, is a strategic region with high potential for fishery re-sources. In addition, the region also boasts beautiful coastal area as well as other marine-related assets such as coral reefs and mangroves. As an imminent threat to the region’s potentials, the technique of destruction fishing not only impacts to the fishery resources, but also damages the marine ecosystem. Therefore, public participation is of significance to maintain the sustainability of marine and coastal resources. The research was conducted using an empirical juridical approach. The data collection technique was carried out through a process of interviews and fo-cus group discussions with various relevant stakeholders as determined purpos-ively. Moreover, a descriptive method was employed to analyze the data. The re-sults show that the existing laws and regulations have provided opportunities for the public to participate in monitoring and reporting of any indications of unlaw-ful acts. Several factors are of importance to be highlighted to optimize the public participation.