Impact of Tropical Cyclone Seroja for Women/Wives of Cross-Religious Fishermen on the Coast of Kupang City

A Qualitative Study on Eight Coastal Subdistricts of Kupang City

Abstract

Linda Rupidara

This research was initiated by the Eastern Indonesia Women’s Network (JPIT) in the second half of 2021 based on concern for the situation and conditions of society after being hit by the tropical cyclone Seroja in early April 2021, especially towards women. This research is focused on exploring the stories and experiences of the impact of tropical cyclone Seroja on women/wives of interfaith fishermen on the coast of Kupang City, by taking research locations in eight (8) coastal sub-districts.

Using a phenomenological approach, through the use of in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) in data collection, analysis of the results of this field study will be intended to describe the situations and conditions faced by the interviewees as a living phenomenon that is unique and different from one another. Apart from involving the participation of forty (42) coastal women, this research also carried out dialogue and discussions with leaders of religious institutions in the research location, represented by Christian and Muslim figures.

The results of this research show that coastal women play a very important role and contribute to post-Seroja recovery efforts, both within their families, neighbors and the wider community. The coping mechanisms that coastal women had before the tropical cyclone Seroja occurred is one aspect that supports coastal women’s efforts to recover from the fear and trauma caused by Seroja. Apart from that, kinship support and social interaction mechanisms, as well as external assistance, are the driving force in accelerating the post-disaster recovery process. All forms of concern, attitudes of mutual assistance and mutual cooperation as well as individual and institutional material assistance were greatly appreciated by coastal women affected by tropical cyclone Seroja, which was received from religious institutions.

Key words: tropical cyclone Seroja, coastal women, coping mechanisms, social interaction, recovery

JPIT RESEARCH ENG JPIT RESEARCH IND