Marine Natural Tourism Management Receives Appreciation, Becomes an Inspiration for ASEAN and Pacific Countries

Banyuwangi Regency has once again captured global attention. This region at the eastern tip of Java Island has been selected as a case study for sustainable coastal marine tourism management at the ASEAN-ID Blue forum. This forum brings together ASEAN nations, Pacific countries, and partner states to exchange experiences on blue economy development.

This international forum scheduled for 17–18 July 2026 becomes a key milestone for Banyuwangi to demonstrate how marine potential can be managed sustainably, not only to drive economic growth, but also to improve the welfare of coastal communities.

Banyuwangi Recognised for Successful Marine Potential Stewardship

Zelda Wulan Kartika, Expert Staff for Economic Diplomacy at Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, explained that Banyuwangi was selected as host due to its proven track record in sustainable marine area governance.

She noted that this management framework does not only prioritise economic targets, but also actively involves local communities in protecting marine ecosystem health.

"What Banyuwangi has implemented sets a positive example for other regions across Indonesia, as well as for all nations present at this forum. This platform also allows us all to exchange practical experiences and perspectives," she stated.

This community-centred approach is one of the core reasons Banyuwangi was deemed suitable as the host location to share best practices with all ASEAN-ID Blue participating countries.

New Zealand Shares Many Parallels With Banyuwangi

Banyuwangi's achievements also attracted the attention of Joanna Anderson, New Zealand's Ambassador to ASEAN.

She observed that Banyuwangi holds very similar characteristics to New Zealand, primarily as a territory with coastal communities whose livelihoods are deeply tied to marine resources.

"That is why I see so many similarities between New Zealand and Banyuwangi. I believe this forum is very well timed, and we can all gain valuable insights learning from one another," Joanna commented.

According to her, Banyuwangi's experience developing the marine and tourism sectors can serve as shared learning reference for all participating nations.

Marine Governance For Community Welfare

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani stated that this forum provides valuable opportunity to strengthen coastal management systems, especially given Banyuwangi's extensive coastline and massive marine tourism potential.

"This forum is an excellent opportunity to advance Banyuwangi's marine stewardship practices, particularly with the long coastline that we manage," Ipuk said.

She expressed hope that collaboration through ASEAN-ID Blue will open new partnership opportunities for the development of sustainable marine and tourism sectors.

Forum Delegates Invited To Experience Banyuwangi Marine Tourism Firsthand

ASEAN-ID Blue is an initiative developed by Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs together with the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), in official cooperation with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).

This forum is attended by official representatives from ASEAN member states, East Asia Summit (EAS) countries, and Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) members.

Beyond participating in blue economy policy discussions, all delegates will also be invited for direct field visits to observe Banyuwangi's marine tourism potential.

Delegations will visit Merah Putih Fishermen Village and Bangsring Underwater, two flagship destinations that demonstrate conservation-based tourism development integrated with coastal community empowerment programs.