The term “Conservationist” is not a legally protected title like “lawyer” or “doctor” is, and that is a good thing. It allows for people like Hans Saleo to be recognized for the important work he is doing to protect the manta rays, even without the formal credentials.
Hans Saleo, a local Papuan, born and raised on Batanta Island in Raja Ampat, Indonesia, opened his homestay in Dayan Bay in 2018. As the amount of tourism rose in Raja Ampat, so did the amount of liveaboards – and it didn’t take long before they heard about the year-round resident manta rays in Dayan Bay. While Hans and his neighbors tried to find a solution in collaboration with the government, and teach the liveaboards about how to behave around the mantas in their bay, they saw the negative impact all of these boats full of divers had on the marine life.
Nina Konstantin-Hansen, who produced the story, writes: “Getting to know these local heroes and listening to their story, it was clear to me that they didn’t know just how impressive their work is – they are the true conservationists. Their work is inspiring. And the results of banning liveaboards from entering the bay are remarkable, which is why choosing to travel responsibly and supporting local business owners is important.”
