<![CDATA[Introduction: Coastal environmental pollution is one of the biggest challenges for communities whose livelihoods depend heavily on marine resources. Kabaena Island, particularly Baliara Village, faces increasing pollution pressure due to nickel mining activities, unmanaged domestic waste disposal, and intensive fishing vessel operations. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between environmental pollution factors and heavy metal levels in Katamba fish (Lethrinus nebulosus), Method: This research employed a quantitative analytic approach with a cross-sectional design. A total of 97 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires as well as fish and seawater samples, which were analyzed in the laboratory using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) and ICP-OES. Data analysis was conducted using Spearman correlation to examine the association between environmental pollution activities. Result: The results showed that heavy metal concentrations in Katamba fish mostly exceeded the safe consumption limits set by WHO and Government Regulation No. 22/2021. Mining activities were significantly associated with Ni levels (r = –0.200) and seawater pollution (ρ = 0.438). Domestic waste exhibited a significant correlation with Pb levels in fish (r = 0.669), while fishing vessel activities were associated with Cd levels (r = 0.317). These findings highlight the substantial contribution of human activities to increasing heavy metal pollution in coastal areas. Conclusion: There is a relationship between environmental pollutants such as mining activities, domestic waste and fishing boat activities with heavy metal levels such as Hg, Ni, Pb and Cd in seawater and catamba fish.]]>
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