Strengthening of Traditional Knowledge for Sustainable Forest Management: Case in Seram Island, Mollucas, Indonesia

Abstract

Forest management systems of indigenous people have undergone many changes due to a variety of interests which is a form of adaptation. Various impacts of change can undermine custom values and rules. The purpose of this research is to facilitate the strengthening of custom system in forest resource management. This research used descriptive qualitative method with PAR (Participatory Action Research) approach. PAR is conducted by constructing meaning constructs together between researchers based on the concepts of experts and concepts of indigenous peoples on sustainable forest management and its issues. The results showed changes in the indigenous system implementation techniques, but basic values are preserved. These basic values serve as guidelines for action to achieve sustainable forest management and utilization.

An island in transition: governing conservation and development in Seram, Indonesia

“…This information could then be used to determine how local governance can be empowered and legitimized through formalized regulatory frameworks. Our findings reiterate others who have analysed traditional natural resource management regimes in the region, specifically how Sasi (traditional resource management) systems could be more resilient in the context of modern government systems, if there was more institutional overlap (Novaczek, 2001;Tjoa et al, 2018;Soselisa, 2002).…”

“…These resource tenure arrangements and development pressures are characteristic of a tragedy of the commons, as seen across other parts of Seram (Tjoa et al, 2018). Land and forest tenure systems in each village are a unique combination of individually claimed land plots, plots shared by families or among multiple families, areas with exclusive access, and areas with non-exclusive access (Ducos, 2014;Sasaoka, 2003).…”

“…Conflict between Muslim and Christian communities at the turn of the millennium left social wounds that are still healing. Being far from the administrative and economic juggernauts in Indonesia's west, communities in Seram have been relatively isolated and left to their own devices (Tjoa et al, 2018). As such, Seram has been disconnected from the costs and benefits of 'business as usual' development processes characteristic of western Indonesia (Margules et al, 2015;Liswanti et al, 2013).…”

Factors Affecting Community-Managed Forest Health

“…Participation in this study was seen based on the intensity of farmers' presence and contribution of thought during the meeting activities held by SHK Lestari. Farmers' participation through deliberations in the formulation of regulations has ensured compliance with this regulation as there is agreement between all members of the community [36].…”