The indigenous community of Isenebuai Village, Rumberpon District, Teluk Wondama Regency, has resumed the sasi laut tradition after the coastal area was closed for three years to preserve the environment.
The reopening of the sasi was marked by a thanksgiving ceremony attended by residents, traditional leaders, and local government officials as a sign of respect for the tradition and a commitment to protecting nature.
The sasi tradition is a local wisdom of the Papuan people aimed at protecting the marine ecosystem by temporarily restricting fishing activities in specific areas.
The ban includes the use of environmentally destructive fishing gear such as dynamite fishing and large nets to ensure that fish populations and marine life remain preserved.
The area covered by the sasi includes Pasir Panjang Beach and several points on Rumberpon Island, known for their rich marine life and pristine natural scenery.
Following the end of the closure period, the coastal area has now reopened on a limited basis under the supervision of the indigenous community to ensure its use remains environmentally friendly.
In addition to preserving the marine environment, the reopening of the sasi also marks the launch of Isenebuai as a traditional-based tourism village focused on environmental conservation.
Pasir Panjang Beach is considered to have great potential as a marine tourism destination because it offers white sand, clear seawater, and the natural ambiance characteristic of Papua.
Traditional leaders and local government officials hope that this culture-based tourism development will boost the local economy without eroding traditional values or damaging the environment.
Through the Sasi tradition, the Isenebuai community demonstrates that cultural preservation and economic development can coexist sustainably.