Jakarta – The government has affirmed its commitment to preserving the environment and the sustainability of tourism in Raja Ampat, following the circulation of misleading and baseless information about mining activities in the area. The temporary closure of the two tourist destinations is an anticipatory step by the government that does not disrupt the overall tourism activities of Raja Ampat.
The Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, said that her party continues to monitor developments in the field and is ready to take adaptive steps to ensure the sustainability of sustainable tourism in the area.
“The Ministry continues to monitor the situation and is ready to take adaptive steps to ensure that local communities remain the main pillars of sustainable tourism,” said Widiyanti Putri Wardhana.
The government also emphasized that other destinations in Raja Ampat such as Manta Point, Cape Kri, Cross Wreck, and Blue Magic remain open and are not affected. These locations are known as world-class diving sites with extraordinary marine biodiversity.
The Ministry of Tourism is known to be working closely with security forces and local traditional leaders. Local governments are also asked to play an active role in protecting tourist areas from potential environmental damage or social conflict.
Raja Ampat itself has been designated as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark and is one of the national priority destinations. The government is targeting this area to become an ideal example of sustainable tourism that balances ecological, economic, and social aspects.
“We want to present a world-class tourism experience, without sacrificing the integrity of the environment and local culture,” said Widiyanti.
The central government’s steps have also received support from parliament. Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Aprozi Alam, assessed the revocation of mining business permits (IUP) for four companies in Raja Ampat as the right and strategic decision.
“I support the decision of President Prabowo Subianto and Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia to revoke mining permits in Raja Ampat. This shows the state’s commitment to environmental preservation and protection of indigenous peoples’ rights,” said Aprozi.
According to him, the policy is in line with the principles of sustainable development that are the focus of the government. Uncontrolled mining exploitation has the potential to damage the ecosystem and threaten the future of tourism.
“Raja Ampat is a national asset with extraordinary biodiversity. Uncontrolled mining exploitation can damage the ecosystem and threaten the potential for sustainable tourism,” said Aprozi.
Aprozi Alam also ensures to continue to encourage government policies that prioritize balance between economic growth and environmental protection.
“This is the momentum to improve mining governance in Indonesia to be more accountable and sustainable,” he concluded.
With a firm stance from the central government and legislative support, the public is urged not to be easily fooled by false issues circulating. Raja Ampat remains a symbol of Indonesia’s leading tourism that is protected and maintained for future generations.
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