Unveiling the mystic sense of place and ocean literacy: the role of the Torosiaje community in championing marine sustainability in Tomini Bay, Indonesia

A limited understanding of ocean sustainability hinders the active role of communities in the conservation and preservation of marine ecosystems. This study applies the concepts of sense of place (SOP) and ocean literacy (OL) to explore the mystical experience of the Torosiaje community in ocean sustainability. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with selected participants and analysed using the Moustakas phenomenological model. The research findings revealed that SOP are formed through three categories: (1) place identity: the ocean as their spirit; (2) place attachment: emotional and spiritual closeness; and (3) place dependence: dependence on spirituality and sacred protection. Each category uses the OL principles to maintain ocean sustainability. Such as the application of the principle “The sea supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems” through traditional rituals and narratives that prohibit exploitation, the prohibition of fishing in coral reefs, and dumping polluting materials in the sea. This relationship fosters strong commitment to conservation and community-based ocean sensitivity. The findings confirm that the development of transcendental SOP and community-based OL can strengthen community support for ocean sustainability under SDG 14, while providing an important framework for understanding human-ocean relationships and driving further research.