Indonesia: Reckless fishing threatens coral reefs in Central Tapanuli

Antara 16 Apr 11;

Medan, North Sumatra (ANTARA News) - Reckless fishing by irresponsible fishermen in the waters of Central Tapanuli district is threatening the existence of coral reefs in the region, a local government official said.

Amiruddin Marpaung, head of Public Relations Office of Central Tapanuli district, said here on Saturday that excessive fishing had become the biggest causes of coral reef destruction as fishermen using various ways of destructive fishing, including use of explosives.

"The Central Tapanuli district government is working hard to preserve and protect coral reefs in our region," Marpaung said, adding that the coral reefs preservation hinges on program outlined by the Coremap (Coral Reef Rehabilitation and Management Program).

The policy of Coremap in managing coral reefs in the area is based on the balance between taking the advantage of them and preserving them, said Marpaung. The program has been designed in a synergic and integrated fashion enabling participation of the government, the public, business circle, universities and NGOs.

Coremap is a long-term program initiated by the Government of Indonesia with the objectives to protect, rehabilitate, and achieve sustainable use of the Indonesian coral reefs and their associated ecosystems which, in turn, enhance the welfare of the coastal communities.

The Executing Agency of Coremap is Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry with the Indonesian Science Institute (LIPI) carrying out two components of the program, namely scientific information and training and education.

In implementing the program, the executing agency cooperates closely with relevant institutions in the central government, as well as provincial and district governments such as with Central Tapanuli regency government.

Editor: Priyambodo RH