Jakarta, ThedailyID — Conservation group Burung Indonesia premiered the documentary film Jejak Wallacea during a special screening at CGV FX Sudirman on Tuesday (May 6, 2026). The film highlights efforts by coastal communities in Wallacea to protect marine ecosystems from destructive fishing.
Produced by Arise! Indonesia and Burung Indonesia, the documentary received support from the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund through the Wallacea Partnership Program II. The film focuses on threats such as fish bombing, poison fishing, and illegal turtle hunting.
Producer and director August Himmawan said the team spent 22 days filming across four provinces in eastern Indonesia. He explained that the crew traveled to remote islands using fishing boats. They also dived in conservation areas and climbed steep hills to reach traditional villages.
Meanwhile, Wahyu Teguh Prawira said the Wallacea Partnership Program II continues conservation efforts started in the first phase of the initiative. The program supports civil society groups managing coastal resources across seven marine corridors in Wallacea.
Wallacea is known for its rich marine biodiversity. The region contains coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass ecosystems. However, destructive fishing activities still threaten many coastal areas. Small-scale fisheries also remain the main source of livelihood for local communities.
In addition, illegal fishing still occurs in protected marine conservation zones. Threats against coastal and marine wildlife also remain a major concern in several areas.
Through the program, Burung Indonesia and its partners work with local governments to strengthen community-based conservation efforts. The initiative also encourages communities to revive traditional knowledge and customary systems to protect marine ecosystems.
Beyond conservation, the program has helped create alternative income opportunities for coastal women. According to Burung Indonesia, the initiative has also reduced threats against protected marine species. It has further improved governance in 14 Key Biodiversity Areas.
Looking ahead, the organization hopes the documentary will encourage stronger collaboration between governments, academics, civil society groups, and the private sector. The program also aims to expand community-led conservation efforts across more coastal areas in Indonesia.
