Obstacles to Revitalizing Communities Coconut Plantations to Support the Green Economy - Based Coconut Industry in Indonesia: The Case of Simeulue Island, Aceh Province

The natural resources around the community encourage people to develop knowledge and skills in managing them. In anthropology, this is known as local wisdom. The people of Simeulue have local wisdom in managing coconut resources. Recently, the coconut and its derivatives industry in Simeulue Island have experienced a decline in production due to a shortage of raw materials. Existing coconut plantations are no longer productive due to age and unfortunately, revitalisation efforts have not been maximised. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the cultural barriers in the revitalisation process of coconut plantations in Simeulue Island, Aceh Province, Indonesia. This study uses ethnographic methods with a qualitative approach. Data collection relies on observation and interviews, applying the principles of living-in and progressive contextual principles. The results indicate that the cultural bonds between the Simeulu people and coconuts have become a matter of pride. However, this pride has contributed to the stagnation of coconut plantation revitalization, as the majority is reluctant to replace old coconut trees with young ones. This reluctance manifests as a cultural orientation that tends to venerate old coconut plantations as monuments to the memory of ancestors that must be preserved. Meanwhile, the coconut industry requires a sustainable supply of raw materials to meet market demand. Livelihood patterns that do not focus on a single job also hinder revitalization. Therefore, it is essential to raise community awareness. Incorporating a productivity-oriented approach to coconut plantations will only succeed if rejuvenation is carried out through participatory planning, taking into account the local wisdom associated with the value of coconut plantations.