On a bright, sunny day after a light morning rain, the Director of Small Islands at the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF), Permana Yudiarso, set sail to explore the enchanting islands surrounding the Tanjung Kelayang Geosite, part of the Belitong UNESCO Global Geopark. It was his first island-hopping experience in Belitung, and the journey left a lasting impression.
As the boat glided across the calm, turquoise waters, the natural beauty of Belitung unfolded—a breathtaking view of crystal-clear seas, smooth white sands, and striking granite boulders standing proudly along the shore. The combination of sunlight and the gentle sea breeze made the perfect setting for an unforgettable exploration. During the trip, the Director shared his insights and experiences in developing Indonesia’s small islands and discussed opportunities for promoting sustainable marine tourism in Belitong.
The first stop was Batu Garuda Rock, one of Belitong’s most iconic landmarks. From the boat, visitors can see a unique granite formation resembling the head of a kelayang bird, a symbol of the island. This spot has become a favorite among tourists for taking photos while enjoying the warm tropical atmosphere and panoramic coastal view.
After a short visit to Kelayang Island, the journey continued toward Batu Berlayar, a small island known for its large granite rocks rising from shallow waters like sails on the sea. Unfortunately, due to the high tide, the group was unable to land, but the magnificent scenery was still visible from the boat. The final destination was Lengkuas Island, home to the famous lighthouse built by the Dutch around the 1880s. The lighthouse stands tall among massive white granite formations surrounded by emerald-green water, creating one of the most picturesque sights in Belitung.
The next day, the Deputy for Coordination of Housing Development and Settlement Infrastructure from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs also joined the island-hopping activity. Accompanied by the Tanjung Kelayang nature reserve team, the Expert Staff for Sustainable Development and Digital Transformation, and the Assistant Deputy for Development and Spatial Planning of Settlement Areas, the group experienced firsthand the natural beauty of Belitung’s northern islands.
Impressed by the stunning scenery, the Deputy noted that Belitung’s islands are a valuable national asset with great potential to attract both domestic and international tourists. “This is truly a masterpiece of nature—more than enough to make anyone fall in love with Belitung,” he said, reflecting the shared appreciation for the island’s beauty and its promise for sustainable tourism development.
Correspondence Author: Tri Wibowo