Tuntong Laut found in villagers homes.

Based on a study of the Central Institute for Research and Community Service College of Forestry Banda Aceh conducted from September 2010 - February 2011, Pusong Cium Island has been identified as great potential to serve as a pilot area for integrated coastal management program because:

a. According to data from Indonesia Institute of Surveyors in 2007, the total area of mangrove forest in Aceh Tamiang district was 82,977,792 ha. Around 6537.76 ha located in Seruway Sub District. Pusong Cium Island is the only region which has the structure and composition of natural mangrove vegetation that has not been damaged by oil palm plantations.

b. On the island is often found Tuntong Laut (Batagur borneoensis). Tuntong Laut is one from 25 species of turtle that is almost extinct. Mangrove forests are the key habitat of Tuntong Laut. According information from local community, Tuntong Laut always comes to the beach of the island to spawn primarily in October to February. At this time, Tuntong Laut and the eggs were taken by many people for consumption and sale.

The recent conversion of mangrove forest habitat into oil palm plantations has caused a decline of Tuntong Laut population. This project will focus on the only island in Seruway that has not been damaged, but is now under threat from plantation expansion.

This work includes three objectives with various activities. The collection of data using descriptive method with type of survey. The data consists of primary data and secondary data. Activities involving the role of stakeholders is participatory. General scope of work of this program are:

Goal. 1. Assessment of conservation status of Tuntong Laut and their habitats by activities; species survey and habitat survey.

Goal. 2. Assessment the use of Tuntong Laut body parts for local trade and their habitat by activities; survey the use of Tuntong Laut body parts and survey of habitat use.

Goal 3. Conservation action by activities; capacity building for local community, local governance and relevant stakeholders, prepare an integrated work plan for Integrated Management of Pusong Cium Island and Protection of habitat and species.

Establishment of pilot area for integrated coastal management in Pusong Cium Island as a habitat of Tuntong Laut in the province of Aceh is a main target of this program. Conservation of habitats and species by involving all relevant stakeholders is a key solution for the Tuntong Laut and will be conducted in this study.