In the now-submerged village of Rejosari Senik on Indonesia’s northern coast, 55-year-old Pasijah stands as the last resident determined to defy the encroaching sea. Once part of a thriving farming community, her home is now isolated by water, two kilometers from the nearest land and accessible only by boat. Despite the departure of neighbors and the loss of farmland, she and her family have chosen to stay.
Water surrounds Pasijah’s home, seeping in with the tides. Inside, floors have been elevated to stay dry. Outside, bamboo fences and a broken power pole mark the remnants of what used to be a village. For 35 years, she has lived here, and her resolve remains unshaken.
Indonesia’s 81,000 kilometers of coastline make it especially vulnerable to rising sea levels, which have risen at an average of 4.25 millimeters annually from 1992 to 2024. Climate officials cite not only global warming but also over-pumping of groundwater, which has caused land subsidence, especially in urban areas like Jakarta.
While authorities consider large-scale infrastructure like a 700-kilometer sea wall to defend the northern coastline, Pasijah has taken a more grassroots approach. She has personally planted around 15,000 mangrove trees over the years. Daily, she rows out in a makeshift barrel-boat to care for the trees, which she credits with slowing the waves and shielding her home.
Despite the isolation, she draws strength from her connection to the land and sea. With her sons fishing and her mangroves taking root, Pasijah says she will remain as long as they can fight back the tides.
Source: Swifteradio.com
