Coastal Development and Perceived Social Change in a Fishing Community in Bangka Jaya, North Aceh

Abstract

Coastal development through cafés and recreational facilities may create economic opportunities while changing how fishing communities use and interpret shoreline space. This study examines the economic and social changes associated with coastal development in Bangka Jaya, North Aceh. It employed a qualitative descriptive design involving five purposively selected participants drawn from fishers, coastal traders, community leaders, and local residents. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation and analyzed through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification. Participants associated the development with increased visitor activity, additional income opportunities, and greater demand for local goods and services. However, participants involved in small-scale trade reported stronger business competition, while participating fishers perceived reduced flexibility in using parts of the shoreline for fishing-related activities. Greater interaction with visitors also generated concerns about recreational activities during religious periods, young people’s use of time, and compatibility with customary and religious expectations. Residents responded by diversifying their livelihoods, maintaining communication, and using community deliberation to address emerging concerns. Given the small and context-specific sample, the findings do not establish population-wide or causal effects. They support participatory coastal governance involving fishing communities, small-scale traders, business owners, village authorities, and customary institutions to negotiate shoreline use, distribute economic opportunities, and maintain locally accepted social norms.