The indigenous people of North Misool, Raja Ampat Regency declared their seascape as community-based protected areas in 2018. Local government along with stakeholders including YKAN established community-based patrol as part of preparation process to the establishment of North Misool Marine Protected Area.
The northern part of Misool seascape is ecologically important because of high marine biodiversity in this area, including habitat of dugong, sea turtles, whales, and valued fish. The protection program is implemented through strengthening community-based patrol against destructive fishing practices in the area.
The program is resulted positively. On January 14th, 2023, a joint patrol consisted of North Misool Police, Military officers, and community group from Mate Jaklou, has arrested the activity of destructive fishing using fish bombing in the area. Fish bombs and one ton of fish caught using bombs were found in the boat of the perpetrators as evidence. YKAN is committed to continue supporting the community and government in strengthen their capacity to protect biodiversity in the Northern Misool region.