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Sasi:

A symbol of local wisdom for environmental sustainability in Southeast Maluku

By IW:LEARN

August 27^th, 2025

Amid the challenges of the global ecological crisis, local traditions such as Sasi in the Maluku and Papua, Indonesia, stand as a clear example of how customary wisdom can maintain the balance between humans and nature. Sasi, is a customary system that prohibits the harvesting of natural resources in specific areas for a set period, until a traditional reopening ceremony is held.

Origins and philosophical values of Sasi

The Sasi tradition has deep cultural roots in the Kei community in Maluku, and is believed to have originated from a noblewoman named Nen Dit Sakmas. It is closely tied to the customary law of Larvul Ngabal, which serves as a moral guide for the local people. The main symbol of Sasi is a woven strip of yellow coconut leaf (janur), marking the prohibition on harvesting natural resources in designated areas—both on land and at sea. The installation ritual is performed by a customary leader or the Tuan Tanah Kampung (land custodian) and conducted in Kei customary language.

During the Sasi period, which typically lasts about a year, activities such as fishing or collecting other natural resources are prohibited. Once the prohibition period ends, a traditional ceremony is held to open the Sasi, signifying that the community may once again utilise the resources in a limited manner.

Opening Sasi Ceremony lead by a local priest in Menarbu, Papua.

Customary law authority and deterrent effect

Sasi is not merely a cultural symbol but also holds the binding force of customary law over the entire community. Its enforcement is determined through collective customary deliberations involving traditional leaders, village officials, customary institutions, women leaders, and religious representatives. These jointly made decisions are binding and respected by all.

Violations of Sasi rules are subject to customary sanctions. One of the most common is the payment of a Lela—a Portuguese-era cannon that symbolises honour in Kei culture. Its value is very high, reaching IDR15–20 million, and it carries deep meaning as a gesture of respect toward tradition. This strict sanction is intended to create a deterrent effect while strengthening social compliance with customary law.

The Regent of Teluk Wondama lifted a lobster as a sign of the opening of the Menarbu Village Sasi.

Contribution to ecology and society

Although it may seem strict, the Sasi tradition has proven effective in fostering social, ecological, and economic justice. It plays a vital role in preserving marine resources while strengthening local values such as people’s rights, customary institutions, and active community participation. Amid the wave of modernisation, the fishers' community remains committed to safeguarding the environment for the well-being of future generations.

Revitalizing Sasi through GEF-6 CFI Indonesia

In recent years, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF), through the GEF-6 CFI Indonesia program, has promoted the revitalisation of the Sasi tradition. This effort is part of the implementation of the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM). Revitalisation is considered crucial, as Kei Besar Island and Papua are a strategic coastal area directly bordering neighbouring countries.

Innovation: Sasi label and co-management

One of the innovations developed by GEF-6 CFI Indonesia is the “Sasi Label” concept—a labelling system that adds value to fishery products originating from outside the Sasi protected areas. Its main goal is to enhance the added economic value of products produced sustainably and in an environmentally friendly manner, while also strengthening market confidence in their quality and provenance.

According to Dr. Adipati Rahmat Gumelar, the program manager, rebranding “Sasi Label” is essential to distinguish fishery products from indigenous community protected areas from regular commercial products. This initiative includes training for women fishers, product processing, skill enhancement, branding, certification, promotion, and partnerships with modern retail networks. As a result, various women's group-processed products have been marketed both directly and through modern retail outlets.

An exhibition in Ambon, to promote Sasi Label products.

In addition, the co-management approach—joint management between the community and local government—has also been strengthened. Communities have been trained in skills such as underwater survey diving, resource mapping using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and establishing community-based conservation areas under the concept of Other Effectively Managed Conservation Measures (OECMs).

Dive training for indigenous people members.

Preserving hope and ancestral heritage

With a spirit of togetherness and respect for tradition, the Kei community demonstrates that the sustainability of natural resources can be achieved without sacrificing culture. Sasi, not only plays a role in protecting the ecosystem but also stands as a symbol of identity and ancestral heritage that must be preserved.

As stated by traditional leader Djud Raharusun, safeguarding Sasi means safeguarding shared life—not only for humans but also for all living beings on this earth.

CFI Indonesia will continue to promote Ecosystem-Based Fisheries Management by engaging various stakeholders to achieve project goals. This includes reviving the roles of Sasi, Hawear, Ngam, Kadup, and similar traditional practices as vital instruments for sustainable fisheries resource management in Indonesia.

About the project

CFI Indonesia, through the GEF-6 grant titled "The Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) in Eastern Indonesia (Fisheries Management Area - FMA 715, 717, & 718) Components A, B, and D", is a collaboration between Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) as the implementing agency and the WWF GEF Agency as the managing institution. This initiative, which began on December 23, 2019, and is scheduled for completion on December 31, 2026, aims to strengthen sustainable coastal fisheries management in the FMA 715, 717, and 718 regions.

As part of its commitment to empowering coastal women economically, CFI Indonesia supports the Mahina Laha micro-enterprise group in Laha Village, Ambon. Through training and the development of ecoprint, a fabric dyeing technique using natural materials, this group has created new economic opportunities for fisherwomen. Their ecoprint products are now widely marketed, including at Pattimura Airport in Ambon and Space Island Resort.

With a focus on environmentally friendly creative industries, Mahina Laha serves as an example of how women's empowerment can contribute to economic resilience, cultural preservation, and sustainable development in Maluku.