Fifan Archipelago Foundation

In the living memory of our dear friend and colleague Fifan Satria

Story

Based on the tragic events of 13 August 2023, when a boat traveling from Nias to Pinang Island in Aceh was hit by a storm, resulting in 7 travelers missing at sea for two nights and one day. Thanks to the remarkable response of Indonesian and international rescue teams, Basarnas, the Australian Embassy, local fishermen, charter boats, volunteers, families and friends, 6 of the 7 travelers were rescued, but sadly the captain, Fifan Satria, remained missing and was never found. The local community in Pulau Banyak and the survivors have decided to establish an NGO called “Fifan Archipelago Foundation for marine and fisheries Adaptation and Mitigation Climate Change Action”

About Us

Climate change has become one of the most pressing and complex issues that the world is facing today. Changes in global temperature, increased intensity of extreme weather, and changes in rainfall patterns are some examples of climate change that have occurred. The impacts of climate change are not only felt on land, but also in marine and fisheries sectors.

The impact of climate change on the marine and fisheries sectors is very diverse. Increasing sea surface temperatures have affected the migration and distribution of fish species, changed the structure of marine ecosystems, and affected the life cycles of marine biota. In addition, climate change also contributes to increased ocean acidity and increased storm intensity, which can disrupt the reproduction of fish species and cause losses for fishermen.

  • Our mission

    Our mission is to deepen understanding of how climate affects marine and fisheries communities by accelerating innovative adaptation and mitigation climate change.

  • Our vision

    Through a scientific approach, solving problems and
    issues of climate change mitigation and adaptation with
    technology and policies to develop integrated marine and
    fisheries management.

Area

Pulau Banyak archipelago is off the west coast of Sumatra in Aceh province. There are approximately 70 islands, with only three islands being inhabited (Pulau Balai, Teluk Nibung, Tuangku). The total local population is estimated at 7-8 000 inhabitants and the main source of the local economy is fishing, to lower scale farming. 

Across the archipelago there can be found pristine coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds which are home to many endangered and protected species. Thanks to its biodiversity, Pulau Banyak archipelago is protected by law as Nature and Marine Park. Among the most charismatic species in the area are green turtles, leatherback turtles, hawksbill turtles, dugongs, salt-water crocodiles and humpback whales. Although being high in biodiversity, the habitats and species face many threats. Environmental hazards created by climate change, ocean acidification, overfishing and unsustainable practices remain concerns for the region.

The area is of concern for both development and conservation. Local communities are heavily dependent on marine resources. The access to healthcare, education and transportation is still very limited. In facing this challenge, adaptation and mitigation strategies have become the main focus. Adaptation refers to steps taken to adapt the marine and fisheries sector to changes in environmental conditions resulting from climate change. This strategy aims to minimize negative impacts and maximize existing opportunities.