University of Bonn and BRIN Researchers Collaborate with Bung Hatta University Lecturer to Study Marine Social Dynamics in Mentawai

Marine social research in the Mentawai Islands has once again drawn international academic attention. Two researchers, Dr. Irina Rafliana from the Center for Life Ethics, University of Bonn and Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), together with A. Fikri Angga Reksa, M.Sc., a researcher in Environmental Risk Geography and Human Security, are conducting field studies on coastal community dynamics on Siberut Island, Mentawai Islands Regency, West Sumatra.

For in-depth fieldwork, the team engaged Dr. Harfiandri Damanhuri, S.Pi., M.Sc., lecturer and researcher at the Water Resources, Coastal and Marine Studies Program (SP2K), Bung Hatta University, on 30 October 2025. This international collaboration contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Dr. Harfiandri explained that discussions focused on risk perception and cultural dimensions related to tsunamis and coastal hazards in the Mentawai archipelago.

"We exchanged various field notes, from observations in Simalegi, North Siberut, to small islands in South Pagai, including the conservation area of Selat Bunga Laut Marine Park, which has frequently become one of my research sites," he said.

He emphasized that Mentawai’s uniqueness lies in the close relationship between its people and the sea.

"Marine ecosystems and local culture are deeply interconnected. Risk awareness cannot be separated from everyday life," he added.

Dr. Harfiandri also highlighted his long-standing collaboration with BRIN in a number of strategic research initiatives, including coastal vulnerability assessments in West Sumatra, resource potential surveys in North Pagai, studies on the Boelongan shipwreck site in Cubadak, underwater archaeology projects in Natuna, and his current involvement in the RIIM-4 research consortium with the University of Lampung (UNILA) and BRIN for the 2024–2027 period.

This cross-border research partnership is expected to generate science-based recommendations for strengthening coastal disaster mitigation policies, preserving maritime culture, and promoting sustainable marine resource management in Indonesia.