CTC Expands OECM Training to More Communities in West Seram, Maluku

Existing community-led conservation practices across Indonesia could gain wider recognition through Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs). Building on July’s training for Pelauw and Haruku villages, Coral Triangle Center (CTC) continued its efforts to help local communities understand the OECM framework and explore opportunities for recognition.

The latest training, held from September 15 – 17, brought together the villages of Kaibobu, Soleh, and Waesala in West Seram, Maluku. The participants represented customary leaders, community groups, youth, women, and fishers. The training was officially opened by Abdullah Leurima, Head of Maluku Marine and Fisheries Branch Office Cluster II West Seram Regency.

Participants learned about the definition and evolution of OECM, the criteria for recognition, and the nomination process. They then applied what they learned by working through nomination forms using examples from their own communities.

Drawing on case studies from Sasi Kaibobu, Fish Bank Soleh, and community-managed areas in Waesala, the participants explored how their existing conservation practices could fit within the OECM framework. The exercises helped connect the national conservation framework to efforts already underway at the community level.

Beyond technical knowledge, sessions on personality styles and effective communication helped participants strengthen collaboration and leadership within their communities.

For Karel Rupidaram, a participant from Kaibobu Village, the training offered new perspectives and approaches on sustaining local livelihoods and making decisions through deliberation and consensus.

“Everything that has been shared during this training should be brought back to Kaibobu because it is valuable. Most importantly, we hope that OECM can be brought home and embraced by the wider community in Kaibobu so that it can also be implemented there,” he said.

By extending the training to new villages in West Seram, CTC continues to help local communities connect their existing conservation practices to a new pathway for recognition and support.

Writer: Megan Alexis
Photos: Megan Alexis/CTC