Social Mapping of the Fisheries Community in Bojongsoang, Bandung Regency

Abstract

Social mapping or social mapping is a comprehensive and systematic approach used to gather data and information about the various aspects of a specific area. It involves understanding the social, cultural, and environmental characteristics of the community residing in that area. The process of social mapping was carried out in the Bojongsoang District, encompassing the sub-districts of Tegalluar, Lengkong, Cipagalo, Buahbatu, Bojongsoang, and Bojongsari, situated in the Bandung Regency. This comprehensive study was conducted over a period spanning from December 2022 to June 2023. The research methodology employed in this study involves a qualitative descriptive analysis conducted through a survey. The survey includes direct field observations and interviews with randomly selected respondents who are engaged in tilapia aquaculture. The study involved a total of 45 tilapia farmers and 7 policy stakeholders from each village. The characteristics of respondents who are fish farmers in the Bojongsoang District can be differentiated based on social and economic factors. Approximately 96% of the respondents chose tilapia farming as their main livelihood. Men play a primary role in running the tilapia farming business, while women are also involved in some aspects. The majority of the population adheres to the Islamic religion and belongs to the Sundanese ethnic group. There are kinship ties between the local community and the owners of tilapia farming land. Social stratification exists with the highest positions held by the district head (Camat), members of the regional legislative council (DPRD), and religious scholars (ulama). Meanwhile, community leaders and elders occupy the middle position, while the general population holds the lowest position. Based on the research, the author's recommendations include the need for land use management for tilapia farming practitioners in Bojongsoang and the importance of policy evaluation for stakeholders in the area.