The Fisheries Co-Management Committee Moves to Tackle FAD Conflict in Gorontalo Waters

_{by M. A. Indira Prameswari}

Gorontalo, February 13th,  2025 – The provincial government of Gorontalo has convened NGOs, industry representatives, and academics in an effort to boost the region’s tuna fishing economy. The meeting also addressed the long-standing tensions over the use of fish aggregating devices (FADs).

The discussion took place during the latest Regular Meeting of the Fisheries Co-Management Committee (FCMC) Gorontalo, a multi-stakeholder body established to ensure sustainable fisheries management. With a science-driven approach, the committee aims to balance economic productivity with environmental stewardship in a sector that is vital to the livelihoods of thousands of coastal communities.

“Even with budget cuts from the Central Government, no policy is meant to mislead the public,” said Ir. Sila Nurainsyah Botutihe, head of the provincial Marine Affairs and Fisheries Department. “This is an opportunity for us to pause, reflect, and collaborate so that our fisheries sector remains operational.”

One of the most pressing challenges discussed was the unregulated use of FADs, which have increasingly fueled conflicts among local fishers.

“FADs have been a persistent concern for our community, yet solutions remain elusive,” said Yasmine Simbolon, director of MDPI, an organization that works on sustainable fisheries. “This meeting is an opportunity to negotiate compromises and find ways for all stakeholders to work together.”

The Only Way Out: Registering FADs for Permit

Regulating FAD placement, officials say, is the only way to prevent further disputes. Both fishers and industrial players are being urged to register their FADs to ensure fair and sustainable usage.

“For small-scale fishers like us, obtaining a FAD permit is complicated,” said Usman, a fisher from Gorontalo City. “I hope we can also have access to registered FADs so that fish stocks remain sustainable for future generations.”

Looking ahead, the committee plans to conduct research, raise awareness, and assist both small-scale fishers and larger industry players in the licensing process.

“The Gorontalo government is seeking support to carry out an academic study on FAD placement and allocation to mitigate conflicts,” said Siti Sabaria Mahmud, secretary of FCMC. “We need to collaborate with MDPI, University of Gorontalo, and other key institutions on this in 2025. Scientific research will be crucial in shaping the Governor’s Regulation on FADs.”