Stories of resilience and learning from the women-led mangrove protection initiative in Berakit Village, Bintan District, were shared as part of a collaborative effort between CARE Indonesia (Yayasan CARE Peduli/YCP) and Yayasan Ecology, with support from Traveloka, through a public seminar held on November 3 at Raja Ali Haji Maritime University (UMRAH) in Tanjungpinang.

The seminar brought together over 100 participants, including representatives from the Riau Islands Provincial Government, Bintan District Government, academics, university students, and members of local women’s groups. Presentations from four speakers representing the Riau Islands Marine and Fisheries Agency, UMRAH Faculty of Marine Science and Fisheries, CARE Indonesia, and Yayasan Ecology highlighted the direct benefits experienced by communities, particularly women’s groups in Berakit Village, and inspired discussions on replicating similar collaborative efforts in other coastal areas.

Several products created by members of the Women-led Economic Business Group (KUEP) Melati and Tenggiri from Berakit Village were showcased at the event. These included naturally dyed eco-print fabrics, snacks, traditional sweets (dodol), mangrove syrup, and various fish-based products such as crackers and meatballs, all tangible results of women’s economic empowerment that participants could sample and purchase directly.

Moving forward, the women’s groups aim to increase production capacity and expand their market reach through local partnerships, strengthening both their livelihoods and their commitment to protecting Berakit’s mangrove ecosystem.