Tanjung Sial: Home to Fishermen who Embrace the Indonesian Ocean

Human Initiative – For those unfamiliar with Tanjung Sial, it is one of the most breathtaking regions in eastern Indonesia. Among its many charms, Tanjung Sial is home to local fishermen who have forged a unique connection with the Indonesian seas.

Indonesia, as an archipelagic nation, has long been renowned for the splendor of its oceans, coastlines, and waves. While surfers are often hailed as masters of conquering waves, the expertise of the fishermen in Tanjung Sial surpasses even that of the world’s most skilled surfers.

Situated on the western part of Seram Island, in the Central Maluku Regency of Maluku Province, the fishermen in this area possess a wealth of experience in navigating treacherous waves and unpredictable sea conditions. Rather than fighting against nature, they have developed a symbiotic relationship with the ocean, knowing when to pause, set sail, or remain at sea.

Everyone Contributes to the Ocean’s Bounty

The Maluku branch of the Human Initiative recently had the opportunity to visit Tanjung Sial. Behind the admirable prowess of the seafarers in Tanjung Sial lies a reality that the Human Initiative must acknowledge.

The livelihoods of the local community heavily rely on the bounties of the sea and their agricultural products. In order to sustain their families, everyone in the community, including children, is mobilized to lend a hand.

Hence, it is not uncommon to find children of fishermen who are unable to attend school due to their responsibilities at sea. Another reality is that the people live in humble, modest dwellings, often in close-knit groups.

Challenges to Human Initiative

This is not the first time Human Initiative has visited Tanjung Sial. Year after year, they have treated the people of Tanjung Sial like family, bringing the benefits of qurbani (Islamic ritual sacrifice).

However, reaching the beneficiaries of Qurbani in Tanjung Sial poses several challenges. From the lack of road access from Air Papaya (West Seram) to Wayasel (Central Maluku), to travel by foot along the coast and by sea from Liaela (West Seram) to Waelapia, and the absence of an inter-district road network—accessing Tanjung Sial proves to be no easy task.

Nevertheless, Human Initiative remains committed to extending the blessings of qurbani to the westernmost region of Seram Island. Through the “Worthful Qurbani” campaign, Human Initiative invites all individuals and organizations to join in spreading the benefits of Qurbani to Tanjung Sial. Fulfill your intention to perform the Qurban this year with Human Initiative by visiting solusipeduli.org/qurban.