Fisheries Conflict Resolution as an Instrument for Community Empowerment in Sebatik Island, North Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

Coastal areas and outer islands have abundant fishery resources and have the potential to become the basis of the local economy. Communities living on outer islands face various challenges in the form of limited infrastructure, access to education, health services, and geographical isolation. In addition, they are also vulnerable to various socio-economic and resource management issues, including horizontal conflicts between coastal community groups that can hinder economic and social development and growth. This study aims to identify sources, types, conflict resolutions and community empowerment strategies on Sebatik Island, North Kalimantan, Indonesia. The study was conducted from March to May 2025 in the villages of Liang Bunyu and Binalawan, Sebatik Island. The study used a descriptive qualitative method in exploring sources, types, resolutions and community empowerment strategies. The results of the study indicate that the sources of conflict in the research area are related to competition for space and resources, differences in technology and business scale, non-existent and unclear zoning and regulations, weak local institutions, economic and social pressures. Conflict resolution solutions are carried out through participatory marine spatial planning and zoning, strengthening local institutions and mediation forums, economic integration and livelihood diversification, environmental education and social dialogue, restorative and legalistic approaches and community social mapping. Empowerment strategies offered through participatory mapping and zoning actions, strengthening institutions and multi-party forums, livelihood diversification, social education and conflict literacy, inter-sectoral collaboration and ecosystem approaches. Sources and types of conflict if not managed properly can hinder sustainable development in border areas.