Innovative Governance of Blue Economy in Coastal Community Empowerment Bintan Regency

¹ Department of Public Administration, Universitas Maritim Raja Ali Haji, Tanjungpinang. Indonesia.
² Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor. Malaysia.
³ Department of Public Administration, Universitas Riau, Pekanbaru. Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: alfiandri@umrah.ac.id

Abstract

This study explores the application of blue economy principles to empower coastal communities in Bintan Regency, which possesses abundant marine resources. Through qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, field observations, and document reviews, the research identifies key challenges such as external interference, financial constraints, and a lack of skilled human resources. Despite these barriers, initiatives like job skills training, financial aid, and eco-tourism development are underway. The findings highlight the importance of community involvement in governance, emphasizing that local populations must actively participate in decision- making processes. Additionally, the study recommends robust monitoring and evaluation systems to support adaptive policies, with collaboration between government, the private sector, and local communities being essential. Ultimately, the research provides policy recommendations to foster an inclusive and sustainable blue economy that addresses socio- economic disparities and positions communities as active agents of change in their own empowerment.