Save the Oceans and Mangroves with Smiling Coral Indonesia

Jakarta, August 6, 2025 – The Thousand Islands, a stunning marine tourism destination north of Jakarta, hold coastal ecosystems that are vital for both the environment and local communities. Amid threats from coastal erosion, pollution, and climate change, Smiling Coral Indonesia (SCI), a non-governmental organization (NGO) initiated by millennials on Pramuka Island, Thousand Islands, DKI Jakarta, is actively working to protect the mangrove ecosystem.

The Role of the Mangrove Ecosystem in the Thousand Islands

The mangrove ecosystem in the Thousand Islands is classified as fringe mangrove forest, growing along coastlines, bays, and lagoons. Mangroves provide dual benefits: ecologically, they prevent coastal erosion, filter pollutants, and serve as habitats for various marine and terrestrial species. Socio-economically, mangroves support community livelihoods, such as mangrove farmers and fishermen, and enhance ecotourism potential. Additionally, mangroves act as natural carbon sinks, aiding in climate change mitigation.

Tidal movements are a key factor in mangrove dispersal, carrying materials like leaves, flowers, or fruits to new locations for natural growth. On Pramuka Island, the mangrove species Rhizophora stylosa dominates due to its ability to withstand high salinity and sandy coastal conditions. “Mangroves are our natural coastal fortress. They protect the land from erosion and support a rich marine life,” said Hermansyah, Chair of SCI.

Mangrove Planting as a Concrete Action by SCI

Since 2019, SCI has planted 55,000 mangrove seedlings in its conservation partnership areas in the Thousand Islands. This activity is integrated with the mangrove seedling adoption ecotourism program, allowing visitors to contribute directly by planting mangrove seedlings. The program not only strengthens coastal ecosystems but also boosts the income of local mangrove farmers. “We see tangible impacts from this program, both for the environment and community welfare,” said Hermansyah.

The mangrove seedling adoption program is designed to operate sustainably, combining conservation with education. Visitors are invited to understand the importance of mangroves through interactive activities, such as planting seedlings and learning about coastal ecosystems. To date, this initiative has raised environmental awareness among visitors and encouraged local community involvement in mangrove conservation.

Community Empowerment through Ecotourism and MSMEs

SCI focuses not only on conservation but also on community empowerment. Through the development of MSMEs, SCI helps local communities produce handicrafts, processed foods, and mangrove-based products. “We want the community to experience the economic benefits of environmental preservation, so they are motivated to protect mangroves,” explained Hermansyah.

In addition, SCI organizes ecotourism activities such as mangrove educational tours, coastal cleanups, and turtle releases to attract visitors. These activities not only increase tourist visits but also educate visitors on the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems. “Tourists leave with new experiences and a heightened awareness not to litter,” he added.

Challenges: Coastal Waste and the Climate Crisis

Despite significant progress, SCI faces major challenges, particularly coastal waste flowing from 13 rivers in Jakarta Bay to the Thousand Islands. According to data from the Thousand Islands Environmental Agency, this region produces around 32 tons of waste per day, threatening mangrove and marine ecosystems. “Waste is a serious problem that exacerbates the climate crisis. We continue to educate the community not to litter,” said Hermansyah.

Another challenge is the lack of public awareness about the importance of mangroves. Many local communities do not yet understand the role of mangroves in preventing coastal erosion and supporting marine life, making education a primary focus for SCI.

The mangrove seedling adoption program has been adopted by other communities, such as the Bintang Harapan Tourism Awareness Group on Harapan Island and the Komparasi Community of the Thousand Islands, which are also active in conservation and ecotourism. SCI has also contributed to scientific research by publishing journals on mangrove ecosystem management, which are used to support policy development for the Thousand Islands National Park. “We hope the data and knowledge we gather can serve as a basis for better policies,” said Hermansyah.

Achievements and Long-Term Impact

Towards Sustainable Coastlines

With an approach that integrates conservation, ecotourism, and community empowerment, SCI continues to build a sustainable future for the Thousand Islands. Mangrove planting, environmental education, and MSME development serve as the main pillars of their mission. “We dream of making the Thousand Islands a model of coastal conservation that inspires other regions,” said Hermansyah enthusiastically.

Through collaboration with the government, private sector, and local communities, SCI not only protects the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands but also ensures its benefits are enjoyed by future generations. “Let’s protect the mangroves together, because they are the guardians of our coasts,” he concluded.