Knowledge, perception and social acceptance of coastal dike construction plan among fishing communities in an erosion-prone coast of Indonesia

Abstract

Coastal dikes address coastal erosion and tidal flooding in vulnerable areas. However, their effectiveness depends not only on technical performance but also on how coastal communities understand and respond to their development. This study examined the socioeconomic characteristics, knowledge, perceptions, and aspirations of fishing communities regarding a planned coastal dike in Wedung Subdistrict, Demak Regency, Indonesia, and assessed the relationship between knowledge and perception. A descriptive quantitative approach was applied to 64 fishermen selected through snowball sampling. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, field observations, and document reviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test. Most respondents (81.12%) had low knowledge of the planned coastal dike, while 60.16% had negative perceptions. Respondents recognized its potential to reduce coastal erosion and tidal flooding and protect coastal settlements, but 51.56% were concerned about access to fishing grounds, navigation routes, and livelihood sustainability. The Chi-square test showed a significant relationship between knowledge and perception (p < 0.05), indicating that greater knowledge was associated with more positive perceptions. The findings suggest that coastal dike planning should involve clear, continuous communication with fishing communities and address their concerns about fishing access and livelihoods. Incorporating local knowledge and community aspirations may improve acceptance of coastal protection measures and help ensure that they address both coastal risks and community needs.