Peran Modal Sosial Dalam Tindakan Interaksi Nelayan Dengan Tengkulak Terhadap Keberlangsungan Kehidupan Nelayan

Abstract

The dependency of fishermen on middlemen is a deeply rooted issue within the socio-economic structure of coastal communities, including in Margaluyu Village, Kasemen Sub-district, Serang City. This relationship, built upon elements of social capital such as trust, social networks, and reciprocal norms, has perpetuated a cycle of poverty among fishermen. This community service program aims to reduce such dependency through participatory and educational approaches, including financial management training, livelihood diversification, and the establishment of alternative institutions such as fishermen’s cooperatives. The results indicate increased awareness among fishermen of the importance of independent business and marketing practices, along with the formation of cooperatives as an initial step toward economic self-reliance. Despite ongoing challenges such as psychological dependence and managerial limitations social capital has proven to be a vital force in fostering solidarity and constructing more equitable and sustainable economic systems. This activity demonstrates that social capital-based empowerment is an effective strategy for improving the welfare of fishing communities.