Socio-Ecological Readiness Analysis of Small Pelagic Purse Seine Fishermen in the Banda Islands towards the Implementation of Measured Fish Capture Policy

Abstract

Small pelagic purse seine fisheries in the Banda Islands are integral to the coastal economy, yet they encounter sustainability challenges due to resource pressures and evolving management policies. This study sought to evaluate the socio-ecological readiness of fishers for the implementation of the Measured Fishing Policy (PIT), which is predicated on quotas, zoning, and scientific data. Conducted from June to July 2025, this research involved a survey of 50 purse seine fishers using a structured questionnaire. The data were quantitatively analysed using the Socio-Ecological Readiness Index (IKSE) approach, which includes six primary dimensions: knowledge, attitude, behaviour participation, adaptive capacity, perception, and needs and expectations. The findings indicate that the socio-ecological readiness level of fishers was categorised as moderate (0.3–0.8). The behaviour and participation dimension achieved the highest score (0.7), whereas the knowledge and adaptive capacity were comparatively low (0.3–0.4). While most fishers have a positive perception of fish resource sustainability, they express concerns regarding the short-term economic impacts of fishing area restrictions. These results underscore the necessity of participatory and adaptive policy approaches with enhanced institutional capacity and bidirectional communication between the government and fishing communities to facilitate the implementation of PIT in the island region.