Research Grant Awarded to Mandaka Lab: Documenting Traditional Ecological Knowledge for Mangrove Conservation in Riau

 

 

We are delighted to share that Mandaka Lab has been awarded a prestigious research grant from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of Riau Province for the year 2025. The funded project is titled:

"Exploration and Inventory of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Mangrove Management as a Coastal Environmental Conservation Effort in Riau Province."

This research will be led by Andri Hendrizal, M.Sc, with team members Riska Fatmawati, M.Si, Rina D’rita Sibagariang, S.Pi., M.Sc, and Prof. Dr. Firdaus LN., M.Si. Together, the team brings interdisciplinary expertise in mangrove ecology, fisheries science, and socio-environmental research.

The study aims to explore and document the rich body of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) held by local communities in several mangrove areas across Riau. These communities, through generations, have developed unique practices in managing, utilizing, and conserving mangrove ecosystems. By engaging directly with community members through interviews, participatory mapping, and field observation, the research will highlight indigenous wisdom that supports sustainable and culturally grounded conservation approaches.

The project will be implemented in key coastal locations including Pangkalan Jambi (Bengkalis Regency), Kelurahan Purnama, and Bandar Bakau (Dumai City)—areas known for their active community roles in mangrove stewardship.

This research not only contributes to academic knowledge but also supports inclusive conservation policies by bridging science and tradition. We extend our gratitude to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of Riau Province for supporting this important initiative.