Thousand Islands Transformation: Focus on Quality Tourism, Not Just Tourist Numbers
Source: Antaranews/Fauzi Lamboka
North of Jakarta, the Thousand Islands archipelago stretches like a string of tropical pearls. Each island holds unique charm—white sand lapped by calm waves, coastal forests, and coral reefs glowing red under sunlight. The Thousand Islands are now entering a new phase of tourism management, transitioning from mass tourism to quality tourism.
The Thousand Islands Sub-Department of Tourism and Creative Economy (Parekraf) has affirmed its commitment to developing quality tourism to deliver more tangible economic benefits for island communities.
"We want tourists visiting the Thousand Islands to genuinely spend money here and stimulate robust economic activity," stated Sonti Pangaribuan, Head of the Thousand Islands Parekraf Sub-Department, in Jakarta on Thursday.
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For years, the approach relied on mass tourism, measuring success solely by visitor numbers.
However, on-the-ground realities show large crowds don’t necessarily translate to economic momentum.
"They don’t spend money here. Hence, we’ll shift from mass tourism to quality tourism," she said.
Restoring the Thousand Islands' Exclusivity
Sonti believes visit quality outweighs quantity. Quality tourism focuses not on tourist volume but on monetary circulation benefiting local communities.
Many basic facilities—from subsidized boat tickets to clean water supply—remain government-funded to attract visitors.
"Ideally, visitors should be affluent individuals who spend significantly on the islands," she emphasized.
Visitor data reveals imbalance: Of 400,000 annual tourists, only 20,000 choose resort islands. Most others visit populated islands with limited economic infrastructure.
Sustainable Enjoyment of Natural and Cultural Wealth
The Thousand Islands offer more than scenic beauty—they’re a natural playground for snorkeling in crystal waters, diving amid schools of fish, or simply enjoying beach serenity.
According to Sonti, the regency boasts coastal splendor, historical sites, and stunning underwater landscapes.
The area holds potential as a premium leisure destination, aligning with Jakarta’s focus on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions).
"These travelers seek leisure options exclusive to the Thousand Islands, attracting precisely the quality tourists we target," she concluded. (Antara)
