Universitas Bung Hatta Lecturer Partners in Coral Reef Transplantation Program in Pulau Siniai, Mentawai

Dr. Harfiandri Damanhuri, S.Pi., M.Sc., a lecturer at the Master Program of Aquatic, Coastal and Marine Resources (SP2K), Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science (FPIK), Universitas Bung Hatta, is serving as an academic partner and expert advisor in a coral reef transplantation program in Pulau Siniai, Mentawai Islands Regency, West Sumatra. The initiative is a collaboration between academia, the private sector, and conservation institutions.

Pulau Siniai, located west of North Pagai Island, covers approximately 52 hectares and has long supported local livelihoods such as farming and fishing. In 2009, a tsunami severely damaged its mangrove forests and coral reef ecosystems, particularly along the northern and western coasts, prompting long-term marine rehabilitation efforts.

The restoration program, initiated by PT Internusa Bahagia under Pagai Foundation, involves science-based conservation strategies developed with marine biologist Hayley Brand. Dr. Harfiandri previously conducted research on coral fragment sources, identified suitable transplantation sites, and trained resort staff in the spider-web coral transplantation method.

As an expert advisor, he determines site selection, coral species, and transplantation techniques using flat spider-web steel frames placed on shallow seabeds to support stable coral growth. Universitas Bung Hatta will collaborate with Pagai Foundation in monitoring and evaluating coral development, involving lecturers, students, and resort guests in participatory conservation.

This program contributes directly to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by promoting marine ecosystem restoration and multi-stakeholder collaboration. The initiative is expected to enhance marine biodiversity and potentially support the expansion of marine protected areas along the west coast of West Sumatra and Indonesia.