THE INTEGRATION OF SHARK POINT CONSERVATION WITH COMMUNITY-LED CONSERVATION TOURISM (CLCT) ON TOMIA ISLAND, WAKATOBI, SOUTHEAST SULAWESI, INDONESIA

Abstract

Tomia Island, located in the Wakatobi Archipelago of Southeast Sulawesi, lies at the heart of the Coral Triangle and is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its Shark Point, a key habitat for reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus and Triaenodon obesus) faces threats from historical destructive fishing and declining apex predator populations. Despite national park status, top-down management struggles with enforcement and limited community engagement. This study formulates and evaluates a Community-Led Conservation Tourism (CLCT) framework at Shark Point, emphasizing the role of the Tomia Fishermen’s Community (KOMUNTO) and the integration of Kawati Customary Law in equitable, nature-based tourism governance. Using a descriptive qualitative case study approach, data were collected from June to December 2025 through field observations, in-depth interviews with traditional leaders and tourism managers, and analysis of policy documents, including Regent Regulation No. 45/2018 on marine resource protection based on Kawati Customary Law. Findings indicate that Shark Point located at the “Fish Bank” site Oalamalaju, Onemay Village is a bay with sandy substrate and gently sloping reefs, showing live hard coral cover between 3.5% and 45.2% and a Coral Mortality Index of 0.12–0.55. Community-based management through the “Fish Bank” system and customary zoning has enhanced fish biomass and shark sightings. The CLCT model is reinforced by adherence to Pamali (customary taboos), which hold greater authority among locals than formal regulations. Community participation in Citizen Science shark monitoring strengthens local stewardship and generates valuable ecological data. A key challenge remains ensuring equitable distribution of tourism revenues to avoid social inequality. The study concludes that the CLCT framework, grounded in Kawati Customary Law, effectively supports sustainable shark conservation while improving livelihoods through ecotourism. Recommendations include enhancing local guide capacity and standardizing a tourism retribution system, with proceeds directly funding village conservation initiatives to ensure long-term sustainability