Muro: An Indigenous Method to Deal with Climate Change

The objective of this study is to study muro as a native method used by the coastal people of Lembata Island to cope with climate change. Muro is the practice of the temporary closure of marine territory by indigenous peoples to manage coastal resources sustainably. The research also wants to know how muro can contribute to ecosystem-based adaptation and biodiversity conservation. The author uses a case study method with a qualitative ethnographic approach. The author carried out the data collection using participatory observation techniques, in-depth interviews, and document analysis in several coastal villages on the Plain Island. The author then analyzed the data using the ecosystem-based adaptation framework (EbA). The findings show that the muro has high ecological, social, cultural, and economic value for the coastal communities of Lembata Island. Muro can improve the productivity and biodiversity of the sea as well as maintain the balance and continuity of coastal ecosystems. Muro can also improve the well-being and resilience of the coastal communities and preserve the customary values and local wisdom related to coastal resource management. The authors conclude that the muro is an effective customary method of tackling climate change and suggest that there should be recognition and support from governments and other stakeholders for the practice of the muro as one of the ecosystem-based adaptation and biodiversity conservation strategies that have been demonstrated.