East Kalimantan strengthens marine protection in Derawan

East Kalimantan’s provincial government has taken a significant step toward enhancing marine conservation by installing boundary markers in the Coastal and Small Island Conservation Area (KKP3K) around the Derawan Islands and surrounding waters in Berau. The initiative aims to bolster ecosystem protection while promoting sustainable marine tourism in one of Indonesia’s most ecologically rich regions. Officials announced the move during a press briefing in Samarinda on Friday, highlighting the importance of clearly defined zones to manage human activity and preserve biodiversity. The project follows a ministerial decree issued in 2016 under the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, which designates a conservation zone spanning 285,548.95 hectares in Berau’s waters. This area includes several key tourist attractions such as Kakaban Island, Sangalaki Island, and the Kaniungan Besar and Kaniungan Kecil islands. To balance ecological preservation with local and tourism-related needs, the government has divided the region into three distinct zones. These include a "limited utilization zone" of 53,441.62 hectares intended for controlled fishing and tourism activities, a "core zone" of 10,011.52 hectares reserved entirely for conservation, and additional areas designated for specific uses based on environmental impact assessments. Irhan Hukmaidy, head of the East Kalimantan Marine Affairs and Fisheries Service, emphasized the need for clear demarcations to prevent encroachment into protected areas. He stated that the installation of boundary markers and informational signage would aid both tourists and local fishermen in understanding the spatial restrictions. The effort aligns with broader goals to maintain the region’s status as a premier destination for eco-tourism, particularly given its significance as a habitat for endangered species such as green sea turtles, whale sharks, manta rays, and stingless jellyfish. The implementation of these measures comes amid growing concerns over the pressures faced by marine ecosystems due to increasing visitor numbers. Local officials have acknowledged the challenges posed by unregulated tourism and have stressed the necessity of strict adherence to zoning regulations. Public awareness campaigns, the distribution of educational materials, and direct engagement with coastal communities have formed part of the strategy to ensure compliance with the new guidelines. These outreach initiatives aim to build a shared understanding among stakeholders regarding the long-term benefits of preserving the region’s unique biodiversity. Collaboration with various entities has also become central to the success of the conservation program. The East Kalimantan Marine and Fisheries Service has forged partnerships with non-governmental organizations, private corporations, governmental agencies, and academic institutions. Such alliances are intended to create a more inclusive approach to marine conservation, incorporating scientific research, community input, and corporate responsibility into the planning process. This multi-stakeholder model reflects a shift towards more integrated and sustainable environmental governance practices. The government has expressed confidence that these measures will contribute significantly to the sustained growth of Berau’s tourism industry. By ensuring that conservation efforts do not hinder economic opportunities, officials hope to secure the long-term viability of both the environment and the livelihoods of local residents. As part of this vision, the province plans to continue refining its management strategies through ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the conservation zones' effectiveness.