Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone Becomes Belitung's Tourism Showcase, Minister of Tourism Highlights Sustainable Tourism

The Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is being prepared as the flagship face of Belitung tourism for global visitors. The government recognises this zone not only functions as an investment hub, but also serves as a showcase for the natural wealth, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism concepts that form the core appeal of Belitung Island.

Indonesian Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana stated that Tanjung Kelayang SEZ holds a strategic position within the national tourism sector development roadmap.

"This SEZ is not just an investment entry point. It is the public showcase for Belitung tourism that upholds sustainable development, cultural preservation, marine tourism, geotourism, culinary experiences, and empowerment of local micro, small and medium enterprises," stated Widiyanti.

According to Widiyanti, improved connectivity is the critical enabling factor for Belitung to compete as a world-class tourist destination. A key milestone for this effort is the launch of Scoot's direct flight service operating the Singapore-Belitung route.

She assessed that this international air access will open far greater opportunities for overseas tourists to visit the island, while simultaneously strengthening Belitung's standing as a premier Indonesian destination.

"This direct connectivity does not only create pathways to increase international visitor arrivals. It also reinforces Belitung's status as a national priority destination, distinguished by its strengths in marine tourism, geotourism, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and community-led village tourism," the Minister added.

During her official visit to Belitung, Widiyanti held coordination meetings with Tanjung Kelayang SEZ operator PT Belitung Pantai Intan and regional government officials to align cross-sectoral programmes supporting tourism development. She also conducted an on-site inspection of the SEZ, accompanied by Belitung Regent Djoni Alamsyah Hidayat.

Meanwhile, Daniel Alexander Napitupulu, Director of PT Belitung Pantai Intan and head of Tanjung Kelayang SEZ management, explained that the area now branded as Tanjung Kelayang Reserve continues to solidify its position as a premium conservation-based tourist destination developed under low-carbon principles.

Across the 324.4 hectare zone, all new investment projects are developed with strict adherence to sustainable development frameworks. This includes construction of low-density resorts using locally sourced materials, alongside development of specialised interest tourism offerings.

"We introduce this destination by highlighting the authentic on-site activities and experiences that visitors can participate in here," Daniel said.

Alongside sports and recreation facilities, Tanjung Kelayang SEZ is also establishing a village wellness centre within the zone as part of its tourism product diversification strategy.

Marine tourism infrastructure is also being continuously expanded. A dedicated fleet of tour vessels is being prepared, which will not only provide inter-island transport but also deliver curated experiences including sunset cruises and onboard fine dining.

Conservation remains the highest priority throughout all development works. Approximately half of the SEZ's total land area is designated as protected conservation zones, managed in collaboration with professional marine and terrestrial biologists.

This protected habitat supports multiple native wildlife species including pangolins, tarsiers, mouse deer, sea eagles, and an endemic dragonfly species found only on Belitung.

Tanjung Kelayang SEZ also hosts rare indigenous flora including the Hopea bilitonensis rain tree, ghost orchids, and pelawan mushrooms, all unique biological assets exclusive to Belitung Island.

Daniel further confirmed that all zone operations follow environmentally responsible principles, including the complete exclusion of groundwater extraction for primary water supply.

"This entire zone uses no groundwater at all, relying 100% on harvested rainwater. This is a proactive mitigation measure against land subsidence risks caused by excessive groundwater extraction, an issue that has already damaged multiple coastal regions across Java Island," Daniel concluded.