South Nias, November 5, 2026 — Lecturer of the Aquatic Resources Management (MSP) Study Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), Dr. Zulham A. Harahap, S.Kel., M.Si., served as a speaker and expert in the review of the document for the designation of the conservation area in the waters of the Batu Islands, South Nias Regency, North Sumatra Province.

This involvement followed up on a request for an expert from the North Sumatra Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office. Based on the letter requesting the issuance of an assignment letter from the USU MSP Study Program, the series of activities was scheduled to take place from November 5–12, 2026.

Dr. Zulham A. Harahap and other participants took part in discussions on the zoning review of the Batu Islands marine conservation area, South Nias Regency, on November 5, 2026.

The meeting on November 5, 2026, in Bawonahono, Teluk Dalam District, South Nias Regency, discussed the preparation of the zoning review document for the Batu Islands marine conservation area. This activity was part of the document review process to support the planning and management of the conservation area.

As a speaker and expert, Dr. Zulham provided scientific expertise in the review of the conservation area document. The involvement of academics is expected to strengthen the scientific basis for zoning plans by taking into account ecosystem protection, the sustainability of aquatic resources, and the needs of coastal communities.

This activity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, which emphasizes the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. The review of the document and zoning of the conservation area support this goal by establishing a foundation for managing marine spaces that considers ecological functions and the sustainability of their use.

The atmosphere during the review of the document for the designation of the Batu Islands marine conservation area in Bawonahono, South Nias Regency, on November 5, 2026.

Conservation area planning supported by scientific studies is expected to help protect important habitats and marine biodiversity. In the long term, effective management is also expected to support the sustainability of fish resources, which are part of the livelihoods of coastal communities.

USU's involvement alongside the local government also reflects the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Collaboration between higher education institutions and the government creates opportunities to apply scientific knowledge in planning and decision-making for aquatic resource management.

Through this participation, the USU MSP Study Program demonstrates its contribution to community service while supporting sustainable development. This expert support is expected to strengthen the planning process for the Batu Islands marine conservation area so that it can provide ecological and social benefits for South Nias Regency.