Protecting the Gentle Giants of Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat, Indonesia, is the heart of our planet’s marine biodiversity — home to more coral and reef fish species than anywhere else on Earth. But even in this paradise, the ocean’s most majestic creatures — manta rays — face increasing threats from overfishing, plastic pollution, climate change, and unregulated tourism.

For over a decade, I’ve dedicated my life to studying and protecting these gentle giants. Through the Raja Ampat Manta Project, we’ve built one of Indonesia’s longest-running manta ray research and conservation programs. Our work helps ensure that these incredible animals — some with wingspans over five metres — continue to glide through Raja Ampat’s reefs for generations to come.

Our small team monitors manta populations, tags individuals to track their migrations, trains local rangers, and works with dive operators and community leaders to build sustainable marine protection systems. Every data point we collect helps shape local management decisions, strengthen protected areas, and inspire the next generation of ocean guardians.

But conservation at this level isn’t easy — and we’re now facing a critical funding gap.

Satellite tags, fuel for field surveys, community outreach, and basic research equipment all depend on donations from people who believe in protecting what truly matters.

Your support will go directly towards:

Continuing field expeditions to monitor manta populations in Raja Ampat and surrounding regions

Purchasing research and tagging equipment to track manta migrations

Supporting local rangers and training programs for sustainable ecotourism

Expanding public outreach and education to inspire protection of Indonesia’s marine megafauna

Even the smallest donation helps us keep the project alive — to continue protecting one of Earth’s last wild ocean sanctuaries and the incredible manta rays that call it home.

Together, we can make sure these graceful giants have a safe future.

Please donate, share, and be part of this story of hope and conservation.

For the ocean, for the future.

— Dr. Calvin Beale

Founder, Raja Ampat Manta Project