Aceh’s community fishers struggle to preserve tradition amid blooms of plastic pollution

Banda Aceh, Indonesia finds its community fishers grappling with the preservation of their cherished tradition amidst a growing tide of plastic pollution. On the shores of Gampong Jawa Beach, a cluster of seven fishermen, led by panglima laot Surya Abid, demonstrate the time-honored method of tarek pukat. This centuries-old fishing technique, dating back to the Aceh Sultanate, requires coordination and adherence to customary laws, overseen by the panglima laot institution that predates the modern Indonesian state.

The devastating impact of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by a 9.1-magnitude earthquake, claimed over 90% of the Gampong Jawa population. In remembrance of those lost, memorials stand tall, towering 30 meters (100 feet) high, symbolizing the immense loss and serving as a warning for future generations. Today, the practice of community fishing, marked by the use of expansive nets and adherence to unwritten customary rules, endures under the guidance of Surya, the local panglima laot.

Assistant Efendi tends to a damaged fishing net, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by these traditional fishers as they strive to protect the marine environment, including endangered species like sea turtles and their eggs.