Madurese Fishermen’s Adaptation to Marine Environment-Based Approach in Fisheries Resources Management by Empowering the Local Wisdom of “Onjem”

Abstract

Nowadays, the number of coastal areas which are rich in natural resources has declined. Such condition affects the economic status of the society in the coastal area. It is necessary for the society to be willing to explore the local wisdom in managing the natural resources. This research aimed to identify the local wisdom upheld by the Madurese fishermen in managing the fish resources and purposed to analyze the society adaptation to the sea condition when fishing. This study utilized descriptive qualitative approach through an in-depth interview with the fishermen, observation, and documentation of the local wisdom upheld by fishers in managing the fisheries resources. The results of the study showed that the Madurese fishermen uphold the local wisdom of “onjem” to manage fisheries resources. The fishermen used “onjem” to adapt to the high sea water temperature and strong waves. The fishermen utilized “onjem” to gather fish. “Onjem” is made from a rope, coconut leaf stalks, and buoys, and attach to the sea bottom using a weight. “Onjem” could lower the surrounding temperature. Thus, it attracts fish to gather around, even in a dry season or famine. Keywords—“onjem”, climate change adaptation, fishermen