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THE MINISTRY of Tourism has emphasized the importance of strong air connectivity around the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Belitung.
According to Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, this SEZ is not only an investment gateway but also a showcase for Belitung tourism, prioritizing sustainable development, cultural preservation, marine tourism, geotourism, culinary arts, and strengthening local Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Widiyanti stated that connectivity is key to Belitung’s ability to increase its competitiveness as a world-class tourist destination. The arrival of Scoot flights connecting Singapore and Belitung is a crucial momentum for strengthening international accessibility to Belitung, particularly the Tanjung Kelayang SEZ.
She believes that direct connectivity not only opens up opportunities for increased international tourist visits but also strengthens Belitung’s position as a national priority destination, offering advantages in marine tourism, geotourism, culture, gastronomy, and community-based tourist villages.
Meanwhile, Daniel Alexander Napitupulu, Director of PT Belitung Pantai Intan and manager of the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ), stated that the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ), known as the Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, continues to strengthen its position as a premium tourism destination based on conservation and low-carbon development on Belitung Island.
Daniel revealed several recent investment developments in the 324.4-hectare area. Businesses within the area continue to expand their investment portfolios while adhering to sustainable development principles.
One ongoing development is the construction of a low-density resort utilizing locally sourced materials and the development of special interest tourism destinations.
In terms of recreational facilities, the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has introduced a pickleball court, which has received a positive response from tourists. Seeing this high interest, the management plans to add sports facilities, including one tennis court, one pickleball court, and one padel court.
The area will also feature a fitness center located in the village within the area as part of diversifying the tourism experience. Other businesses within the SEZ are also increasing investment in the marine tourism sector by providing vessels to support various tourism activities.
The ship serves more than just transportation, but is designed to enrich the tourist experience, including onboard dinners and sunset cruises.
Of the total 324.4 hectares of the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ), approximately half is allocated as a conservation area. Management of the conservation area is assisted by resident biologists and includes regular conservation activities. This area is home to a variety of biodiversity, including pangolins, tarsiers, mouse deer, endemic dragonflies, and sea eagles.
In terms of flora, the area is home to the endemic Hopea bilitonensis, or “palm tree,” and the ghost orchid, a unique orchid species lacking chlorophyll that relies on fungi for its survival. The Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is also known as a natural habitat for the “pelawan” fungus.
“This area also does not use groundwater and relies entirely on rainwater. This is an anticipatory measure against the risk of land subsidence due to overexploitation of groundwater, as has occurred in several coastal areas of Java,” concluded Daniel. [traveltext.id]
