Belitung Strengthens Sea Turtle Conservation to Secure UNESCO Status

RRI.CO.ID, Belitung - The Belitung Regency Administration in the Bangka Belitung Islands is ramping up efforts to protect and preserve its sea turtle populations. Recognized as a critical component of the marine ecosystem, sea turtles are now at the center of a strategic preservation plan focused on the region's coastal areas and small islands.

According to Belitung Regional Secretary, Marzuki, these conservation efforts are not only ecologically driven but are also essential for the upcoming revalidation of the Belitung UNESCO Global Geopark status.

To ensure long-term sustainability, the local administration has collaborated with the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) to socialize and implement turtle management strategies.

The initiative focuses on several concrete actions to ensure the long-term survival of sea turtles in the region. To provide a safe environment for nesting, the administration is prioritizing habitat protection by establishing dedicated conservation zones within key coastal areas.

Additionally, authorities are focusing on anti-poaching efforts, implementing strict measures to end the illegal hunting and trade of sea turtle eggs. To directly support the growth of the species, the program also includes the consistent release of hatchlings (tukik), with regular events organized to boost the local population in the wild.

Marzuki emphasized that the revalidation of the UNESCO Global Geopark is not just about geological heritage, it is a holistic commitment to preserving living biodiversity.

"Good turtle management is an important indicator of seriousness in managing the area sustainably," he said on Thursday, April 9, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The administration is calling for collective public awareness to ensure these protected species thrive. By integrating wildlife conservation with the region's global geopark identity, Belitung aims to showcase a successful model of sustainable development where nature and international status go hand-in-hand.

Belitung's administration is taking concrete actions to strengthen the sea turtle ecosystem, including the construction of conservation areas and the consistent release of hatchlings into the wild. These efforts are part of a larger commitment to stop the hunting of eggs and ensure the survival of this protected species.

Furthermore, the authorities are prioritizing community awareness, hoping for a collective effort from the public to maintain the turtle population. By focusing on these strategic steps, the regency aims to demonstrate its seriousness in managing its coastal regions sustainably, which is a key requirement for maintaining its prestigious international status. ***