Desa Wisata Terong (Terong Tourism Village) Geosite is one of the most inspiring examples of how communities can turn challenges into opportunities. Located in Sijuk Subdistrict, Belitong, just about 43 minutes from Hanandjoedin Airport, the village covers around 16,000 hectares and is easily accessible through the national road.
Geologically, Terong Village is shaped by the weathering of Tanjung Pandan granite, which forms quartz sand and alluvial deposits dating to the Quaternary age. In certain areas such as Bukit Tebalu, visitors can still see striking granite outcrops with the distinctive “tor” morphology that is typical of Belitong, originating from the Triassic period (208–245 million years ago).
Beyond its geological wonders, Terong is a living showcase of environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. The village is divided into four sub-sites, each offering a different theme:
Bebatu for agro-tourism, where visitors can experience local farming practices,
Bukit Tebalu for nature tourism with scenic granite landscapes,
Aik Rusa Berehun for creative tourism and agro-tourism village activities, and
Mangrove Forest in Dusun 1, dedicated to conservation and eco-education.
What makes Terong special is its role in transforming ex-mining land into a thriving hub of eco-tourism, creative industries, and mangrove planting. By developing tourism and community-based conservation, the village helps prevent the return of destructive mining activities while providing new sources of income for local residents.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from learning about agro-tourism and participating in cultural activities to exploring mangrove ecosystems and witnessing creative community projects. This integrated approach reflects not only the resilience of the people but also their commitment to sustainability.
Terong Tourism Village is more than a destination—it is a model of how geology, conservation, and culture can work together to build a sustainable future for Belitong.
