Presence, performance, and institutional resilience of sasi, a traditional management institution in Central Maluku, Indonesia

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study performed in 1997–98 on the presence, performance and institutional resilience of sasi, a local traditional resource management system in Central Maluku, Indonesia. The presence and functionality of sasi in 63 villages was determined by way of structured key informant interviews that explored the existence of sasi ceremonies, presence of written rules and sanctions, level and consistency of activity over time, area of application of rules, and governing authorities. Performance was measured in 11 villages with strong sasi and 11 villages where it was weak. Performance was expressed in terms of biological and social sustainability, efficiency and equity. A number of factors were identified that contribute positively to the resilience of sasi as a local institution. The results of the study can be useful in the revitalization of traditional institutions or the establishment of new institutions in the context of decentralization and co-management in Indonesia and elsewhere.