Local Fishers’ Understanding of the Implementation Efforts of the Measured Fishing Policy

A Case Study in the Banda Islands, Central Maluku

Abstract

The Measured Fishing Policy (Penangkapan Ikan Terukur/PIT) is a recent initiative in Indonesia’s fisheries management, grounded in quota allocation, spatial zoning, and sustainability principles. This policy aims to balance the utilization of marine resources with environmental conservation, while ensuring economic equity for local small-scale fishers. This study aims to assess the level of understanding among small-scale fishers in the Banda Islands, Central Maluku, regarding the full implementation of PIT, particularly in terms of zoning, gear and vessel standards, administrative procedures, socio-economic impacts, and government outreach. A descriptive quantitative approach was employed, using purposive sampling of 95 active fishers from eight villages across three main islands. Data were collected through structured Likert-scale questionnaires and field interviews. The results indicate that most fishers have limited understanding of key technical aspects, such as legal fishing gear (63.16% lack awareness), catch reporting procedures (50.53% unaware), and post-production non-tax revenue (PNBP) mechanisms (69.47% do not understand). However, there is a relatively positive perception of the policy’s economic implications, particularly in terms of operational efficiency (61.06%), income potential (63.16%), and the role of customary leaders (72.63%). In conclusion, while fishers’ overall understanding of PIT remains insufficient, there is an encouraging acceptance of its objectives. To ensure effective implementation, enhanced outreach, adaptive technical assistance, and active involvement of local institutions are essential. It is recommended that the government adopt participatory communication and locally contextualized education strategies to support inclusive and sustainable PIT implementation in archipelagic regions.