The “Sassi” Lemon Islanders’ tradition of protecting the marine ecosystem

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Manokwari, West Papua (ANTARA) –
A local named Alexander Sitanala, commonly known as Echon by his colleagues, jumps into the calm waters of Toreri Bay in Manokwari District, West Papua province.

Armed with only a simple mask, a snorkel and a pair of fins, Aikon began to explore the hidden underwater world of Nusmapi Island (commonly known as Lemon Island).

“There are lots of fish here, some of them are bigger,” Ejon said as he surfaced after a five-minute dive.

The chairman of the Ketapang Diving Club is no stranger to diving activities. For him, staying underwater for 5 to 10 minutes is a piece of cake.

As a diver and environmentalist, Echon dived into the sea hoping to witness first-hand the positive impact that the “Sasi” tradition recently implemented and summarized by the residents of Lemon Island has on the local marine ecosystem.

During the observance, residents are prohibited from exploiting marine resources within the 48.8 hectares surrounding Lemon Island, 10.5 hectares of which are home to coral reefs.

It was believed that misfortune would befall those who ignored the ban.

The people of Lemon Island held a ceremony on March 31 last year to start the Sassi period, which they believe is a way to protect the marine ecosystem. Then, on May 25, 2024, they held another ceremony to end the Sassi period. Another Sassi period is scheduled to begin on August 1 this year.

“Before observing Sassi, we saw only a few fish here. However, their number has increased after we performed this tradition. Besides, we can now see turtles here,” Ejong said.

While tasting a fresh coconut, he added that the “Sassi” project initiated by the residents of Lemon Island and the Bachtra Church in Utrecht has proven to play an important role in protecting the environment.

Due to the prohibitions during the Sassi period, the inhabitants of Lemon Island must sail and dive further to catch fish, an action they believe is necessary to ensure the sustainability of the marine ecosystem that is the source of their life.

Against Sassi

Joel Rombobial, a customary rights holder on Lemon Island, said fishing is a means of livelihood for him and most residents on the island and is of economic importance.

The onset of the Sassi period forced fishermen to sail further to neighboring areas such as South Manokwari in West Papua and Biakonumfor in Papua Province.

In addition to being prohibited from fishing in the designated areas, fishermen are also prohibited from using non-environmentally friendly methods and means such as bombs and crowbars that may damage coral reefs.

““Initially, some residents were against Sasi. However, after we discussed the matter, they changed their minds and even said they would maintain the tradition in the coming years,” said Rumbobiar.

The Sarsi method is not seen solely as an effort to protect the marine ecosystem. In fact, Lemon Island residents believe that following the Sarsi method will maintain fish populations, thereby attracting more divers and tourists to the island.

After observing Sassi, the people of Lemon Island realized the importance of ensuring the sustainability of the priceless marine ecosystem they possess.

Church Initiative

Yoseph Raubaba, representative of the Bachtra Utrecht Church, noted that the church proposed the observance of Sassi and was supported by several non-governmental organizations such as Kawal Papua Barat, Ecodefender, Econusa and Ketapang Dive Community.

Laobaba said that in the past, people of Lemon Island regarded “sasi” as a ritual through which they prayed to the spirits of their ancestors to help increase the number of fish.

He said there is now a wider appreciation of the tradition as a way to show gratitude to God and take good care of his creation.

“We return what belongs to God,” he affirmed.

On behalf of the Manokwari District Government, the Manokwari East Divisional District Chief, Amos Andris Ramsayol, expressed full support for holding the Sassi Festival in Lemon Island.

He praised the observance of the tradition and said it helped restore the marine ecosystem within a year.

Since Lemon Island is located within Manokwari district, Ramsayol stressed the need for the district administration and all residents of the island to work together to ensure the sustainability of the island’s marine biodiversity.

“The government and the people must share the responsibility of protecting the beautiful underwater ecosystem. We need to protect the environment and keep it clean,” he said.

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