I’m Arum, a seventh-semester student of the Aquaculture Study Program, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences. I started my academic journey in Aquaculture, but when the Marine Science and Technology specialization was opened, I found myself drawn to it. The ocean has always fascinated me, and this specialization became the path I wanted to pursue. This interest in marine science eventually led me to choose Karimunjawa National Park as my internship site, where most of the activities are closely related to marine environments. Karimunjawa National Park is a protected conservation area rich in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, encompassing tropical forests, mangrove forests, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs that serve as habitats for diverse marine species.
During my internship at the National Park, I focused on the topic of Seagrass Ecosystem Monitoring Techniques. My activities included observing seagrass ecosystems in Karimunjawa waters—examining the density and composition of seagrass, assessing the water quality in which they thrive, and identifying associated marine organisms. In addition to these core research activities, I also participated in routine conservation programs conducted by the National Park staff. These included coral transplantation and monitoring, water quality data collection, and identifying degraded coral conditions around the small islands of Karimunjawa. I also had the opportunity to practice scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as participate in direct conservation efforts with the National Park management team. There were so many “new experiences unlocked” throughout this internship—from feeling nervous at first while being in open waters to now being completely at peace underwater.
My learning experience was not limited to the marine area. I also took part in joint patrols with forest rangers and National Park staff to protect the tropical forests on Karimunjawa Island. These patrols were carried out to ensure that the conservation area remains well-protected and to monitor any violations committed by the surrounding communities. The activities involved terrestrial patrols in the tropical forest, checking boundary markers, conducting sea patrols, ship inspections, and supervising tourist activities. Through these experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of how both marine and terrestrial ecosystems are managed within conservation zones.
This internship has given me more than just technical skills—it offered real exposure to the challenges and rewards of working in a protected ecosystem. Beyond the research and fieldwork, I discovered the meaning of harmony between humans and nature. The days spent in Karimunjawa, surrounded by waves, sunrise and sunset hues, and kind-hearted people, left a deep impression on me. Karimunjawa will always have a special place in my heart. As I move forward in my studies and career, the lessons and memories from this journey will continue to inspire my passion for marine conservation.”
Writer: Dyah Arum Haura Fauziyyah
