Fisherman's Perception on the advancement of Eco-Conscious Bagan Tancap Fisheries Tourism in Kotabaru Regency, South Kalimantan

Abstract

This study endeavours to investigate the perceptual attitudes of Bagan Tancap (lift net) fishermen towards sustainable capture fisheries practices and assess the perspectives held by both Bagan Tancap fishermen and governmental authorities regarding the proposed establishment of an ecologically sustainable Bagan Tancap Fisheries Tourism Initiative in Kotabaru Regency. Field investigations were conducted from May to July 2023, employing survey methodologies. The data collected from the survey comprises ordinal data, utilizing a Likert scale to gauge responses ranging from highly positive to extremely negative. The research findings reveal that Bagan Tancap fishermen exhibit relatively favourable perceptions of environmentally friendly capture fisheries practices, encompassing gear selectivity, biodiversity considerations, ecological diversity, safety concerns for fishermen and consumers, social conditions, and the quality of catches. Furthermore, fishermen's perceptions of environmentally non-destructive practices are highly positive. Regarding the proposed development of an environmentally sustainable Bagan Tancap tourist attraction, fishermen display extremely positive and supportive attitudes, demonstrating a willingness to actively participate in the planning, execution, and conservation efforts associated with the tourism resource.