By: Muhammad Wisnu Sasongko
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable tourism through the development of tourism facilities on Padar Island, Komodo National Park (KNP), West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. This project is designed with environmentally friendly principles and involves the active participation of the local community. This initiative is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to the welfare of the people and its efforts to preserve nature. Currently, Padar Island, an ecotourism icon, is entering the public consultation phase for the Environmental Impact Analysis (AMDAL) document, which has been prepared in accordance with UNESCO and IUCN standards since early August 2025.
Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni stated that tourism facilities on Padar Island must not damage the Komodo dragon’s habitat. He explained that each stage of development, particularly by PT Komodo Wildlife Ecotourism (PT KWE), must undergo a lengthy evaluation process with a rigorous environmental impact assessment. All plans must undergo an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), consult with UNESCO and the IUCN, and avoid the use of permanent structures. To minimize the permanent impact on the environment, the concept of modular, relocatable buildings is being promoted.
Meanwhile, Zulfikar Suhardi, a member of Commission VII of the House of Representatives (DPR), emphasized the importance of developing quality tourism that involves local community participation. He believes that local communities should directly benefit from the project’s implementation. This principle aligns with Komodo National Park’s role as a natural habitat for Komodo dragons and a world heritage site. Through active community involvement, the government strives to build local economic independence while preserving the environment.
The development of tourism facilities on Padar Island is projected to have a significant positive impact on the local economy and social life. This project will create job opportunities in various sectors, from hospitality and culinary arts to transportation and tour guiding. The local community is expected to become not only a workforce but also independent entrepreneurs providing tourism-supporting products and services.
In addition to providing economic benefits, this development is also expected to strengthen social cohesion through interaction between residents and collaboration in environmental preservation. Active community involvement in the tourism industry not only improves living standards but also fosters a sense of ownership of Padar Island as a shared asset that must be preserved for future generations.
National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) researcher Destika Cahyana expressed her support for this plan as long as ecological balance is maintained and local communities are involved. She emphasized that if the land status complies with regulations, villa construction can proceed as long as it does not damage the environment or the Komodo dragon habitat. The proportion of green land must also remain dominant to prevent erosion and damage to the marine ecosystem. This perspective provides a scientific dimension that strengthens tourism development planning on Padar Island.
While the number of facilities appears significant, the project utilizes only a small portion of the area, ensuring that the majority of Komodo dragon habitat remains within the conservation zone. This step demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to balancing regional economic growth with ecosystem preservation.
The government is optimistic that this project can align economic growth and environmental preservation. Market segments will be strategically structured to complement each other, preventing competition that would be detrimental to existing businesses. PT KWE also reaffirmed its commitment to complying with all established requirements to maintain a balance between tourism development and the sustainability of the local tourism sector.
The government emphasized that all data and development plans will continue to be refined through further studies. The government is open to public input and ready to make adjustments as needed. This approach emphasizes that the government prioritizes not only development acceleration but also quality and sustainability. Flexible, measurable, and controlled development is a top priority.
Local community involvement in tourism management is receiving special attention. Various training programs, ranging from hospitality services to eco-tour guides, are continuously being intensified to improve the capacity of local human resources. These efforts aim to enable communities to play an active role in the tourism industry while also directly benefiting from its economic impact. This strategy aligns with national policies that encourage the development of superior destinations based on sustainability and community empowerment.
Padar Island’s development policy also aligns with global tourism trends that prioritize eco-friendly and authentic destinations. Since the ASEAN Tourism Forum and the post-pandemic surge in visits, Indonesia has further strengthened its international appeal through sustainably managed destinations. Padar Island is expected to become a model for conservation area management that can serve as a benchmark internationally.
The development of tourism facilities on Padar Island reflects the synergy between the government, the private sector, and the community in realizing quality ecotourism. Through the implementation of a strict environmental impact analysis (EIA), the use of modular building concepts, and the strengthening of local community capacity, this initiative is expected to preserve nature while improving the well-being of residents. The government’s responsiveness to public input and commitment to conservation demonstrate its commitment to developing sustainable tourism. Padar Island also has the potential to become a symbol of Indonesia’s success in creating tourism that benefits the people and preserves its natural heritage for future generations.
)*The author is an environmental issues observer
