Marine ecosystem conservation efforts initiated by the FMIPA UNEJ and PT Autore Pearl Culture have begun to show encouraging results. Two months after planting, in May 2026, 750 coral reef seedlings in the waters of Tanjung Sekeben, Tembokrejo, Muncar, Banyuwangi Regency, are now recovering. Several species of reef fish have returned to the transplanted area as an indicator of improving habitat quality. This program is also supported by the Banyuwangi NAVAL Base, UPT Pelabuhan Perikanan Muncar Dinas Kelautan dan Perikanan Provinsi Jawa Timur, and local fishermen’s groups.

The project team leader, Dr. Ratna Dewi Syarifah, S.Pd., M.Sc., stated that monitoring results showed excellent coral reef seedlings’ survival rates. She believes the transplantation method has been successfully implemented, effectively restoring the marine ecosystem. “We are grateful to see positive developments, with the reappearance of various fish species around the transplantation site, and the coral reefs beginning to function as natural habitats. This proves that collaborative conservation efforts can have a real impact on the environment,” she said.

Furthermore, the lecturer from the Physics Department of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences explained that the success of restoration is not only measured by the growth of coral reefs, but also the increase in biodiversity that has returned to inhabit the area. FMIPA UNEJ will continue to carry out regular monitoring, further research, and education for coastal communities to ensure the sustainability of the ecosystem. “Conservation is a long-term investment. The success of this program must be followed by a shared commitment to maintaining marine ecosystems so that its benefits can be felt by future generations, both in terms of the environment and the welfare of coastal communities,” added Dr. Ratna.

The success of this coral reef restoration program further underscores the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) UNEJ’s commitment to implementing the Tri Dharma of Higher Education through research and community service that deliver tangible impacts. The synergy between academics, government, the business world, officials, and the community is expected to become a model for conservation collaboration that can be implemented in various coastal areas in Indonesia. This is a manifestation of the collaboration between FMIPA UNEJ and PT Autore Pearl Culture in May 2026, prior to the planting of coral reef seedlings.