adds up to Rp50,000-Rp200,000 (USD20-USD80, early 1997 exchange rate) a month (see Chapter
5 for more details on catch divisions). All in all, the fishery brings in about Rp50 million (±
USD20,000) a month, including the wages for about 150 fishers who work on the boats.
10.2 Attributes of the Community and Fishers
As of 1997, the middle-sized village of Nolloth has 2,546 inhabitants divided over 530
households. The average household size is about five persons. The village is 100% Christian
with no recent history of in or out-migration. There is no tourism. Visitors usually visit relatives,
and sometimes, they come to observe the sasi rituals.
Present village facilities include electricity, three elementary schools, two gas stations, a food market,
a drug store and a banking service from the KUD. Many residents have TVs. The village has an
open storm drain system. There are both private and community wells, with some water brought in
from a spring in Itawaka, a village to the north. Additional water wells are currently being developed.
The nearest health center is in Ihamahu, a neighboring village within walking distance.
Transportation to the village is good. The village has hard top road access, and there are
frequent public minibuses connecting Nolloth with Saparua Kota, the largest town center on
the island. Speedboats also take passengers and trade goods directly from Nolloth to the
urban centers of Ambon on Ambon Island, and Masohi on Seram. Communication links are
limited to a radio connection; there is no telephone.
Employment
The village is mainly dependent on agriculture and fisheries. Fishing is a full-time job for
40% of the villagers while another 30% fish part-time. There has been a slight shift from farming
to fishing in recent years due to increasing revenues from fishing (higher fish prices).
Since 1979, the number of small shopkeepers has increased to 18. There are a few artisans who
make furniture, and several who work in housing construction. The number of government
employees has tripled from 16 to 44 persons as a result of the new government structure.
Table 10.2.
Village leaders in Nolloth
|
1995- now |
Pieter Huliselan |
|
1987-1995 |
Arnold Matatula |
|
1979-1987 |
Abner Selano |
|
1971-1979 |
Niclas Matatula |
|
no date |
Jonatan Selano |
|
no date |
Yusuf Huliselan |
10.2.1 Village government
The village head himself distinguishes three main political bodies in the village: the village head,
the village officials and the cooperative (KUD) of which the manager is an important adat leader,
the tuan negeri. In Nolloth, the church minister is also a noted person. Among these authorities,
there is close collaboration concerning village matters and they are mutually supportive.
Desa Nolloth, Saparua Island 99