Berau Regency is located in the northern part of East Kalimantan Province, directly bordering North Kalimantan Province. Berau covers an area of 3.5 million hectares, with 1.2 million hectares of marine area, renowned for its small islands and coral reef clusters that produce extraordinary marine resources to support Berau’s economy.
The small islands in Berau’s waters are home to the largest green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) population in Indonesia. These include Belambangan Island, Sambit, Sangalaki, Semama, Mataha, Bilang-Bilangan, Maratua, Kaniyungan Besar, Kaniyungan Kecil, Bakungan, and Nunukan. In addition to being a nesting site for green turtles, these islands are also visited by hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) to lay their eggs.
Turtle exploitation still occurs in Berau Regency in three forms:
- Exploitation of turtle meat (hunted for consumption or trade, especially during certain times like New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year, etc.)
- Exploitation of turtle eggs (turtle nests are raided for their eggs, which are then traded. Some people in Berau still believe that turtle eggs have aphrodisiac effects and can enhance male vitality.)
- Exploitation of turtle shells (accessories made from hawksbill turtle shells are popular among local consumers and visitors due to their rarity. In addition to their rarity, consumers also believe that these accessories can aid in detoxification.)
The Indonesian Turtle Foundation (YPI), in collaboration with the Turtle Foundation and Protection of Forest and Fauna (PROFAUNA), has been working together to mitigate the widespread exploitation of turtles in Berau Regency. Several consistent efforts have been made, including:
Island Guarding of Belambangan Island:
Before the implementation of the guarding program, turtle nests on this island were completely raided, with 100% of the eggs taken, leaving no hatchlings to emerge. Immediate action was needed to protect green turtle generations from extinction. Since February 28, 2019, YPI has deployed its rangers to guard Belambangan Island.
School Visit:
YPI believes that education is a long-term investment in fostering love for the environment, particularly turtles. Since mid-2018, YPI has continuously conducted educational outreach in schools, from elementary to high school. The education program includes oral presentations, discussions, games, and film screenings.
Market Monitoring:
YPI, in collaboration with PROFAUNA, regularly conducts visits to local markets to monitor the circulation/trade of turtle shell-based accessories. If any trade is found, it is reported to the authorities.
In Berau, there are several small islands that are turtle nesting habitats yet to be protected. YPI coordinates with stakeholders to consider efforts to implement guarding on these islands.
