Integrated Vulnerability Assessment on Small Island Regions towards Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM): A Case Study of Thousand Islands, Indonesia

Abstract

Centralized development, population growth and pollution are contributing factors to ocean and coastal management problems in Indonesia, particularly in the small island regions. Indonesia, consisting of more than 17,504 small islands, has been adopting and implementing the Integrated Coastal Zone Management program in order to achieve sustainable development. However, many disputes between local communities and governments are observed since Kepulauan Seribu, also known as Thousand Islands, became a Marine National Park in the early 1980s. For a century, the islands located in the northern part of Indonesia’s Capital have experienced severe anthropogenic pressures from the surrounding environment, which caused a loss of some islands and the degradation of regional ecosystems. This study aims to assess the social, economic and environmental impacts on Thousand Islands as influenced by anthropogenic factors, using vulnerability indices and Geographic Information Systems. The assessment is based on a qualitative analysis and a survey of decision-makers, aiming to evaluate the policy that has been involved within ocean and coastal management in the region. From the data analysis results, it can be summarized that the region has the sustainability in a social and economic perspective; however, it is the environment that is severely deteriorated. It is found that the policies to maintain the balance of social, economic and environmental impacts have failed in order to overcome the changes. In addition, the ambiguity and powerlessness of law enforcement has caused damage to the environment to some extent. Therefore, coordination between the central government and local governments, as well as public participation is recommended, in order to monitor, evaluate and (if possible) redevelop the region.