RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - To safeguard the ecological integrity of Komodo National Park in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, the Ministry of Forestry has officially implemented visitor quotas to prevent the long-term degradation caused by mass tourism.

The policy represents a shift toward a conservation-first approach. It prioritizes the habitat of the world’s largest lizard over high-volume visitor traffic to ensure the site remains a viable destination for future generations.

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni announced the strategic measure during a working meeting with Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The restrictions are heavily concentrated on three primary destinations, Padar Island, Rinca Island, and Komodo Island, as well as 23 surrounding diving spots.

Under the new regulations effective since April 1, 2026, the daily visitor limit has been set at 1,000 people, totaling approximately 365,000 visitors annually.

The Minister emphasized that the decision was rooted in scientific evidence rather than administrative convenience. "Our decision to limit tourist quotas is based on in-depth research. The study indicates that long-term over-tourism will result in area damage and the loss of the tourism appeal itself," said the Minister, as quoted by Antara.

He further explained that the policy is a strategic move to protect the park as a primary sanctuary for the komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis) while simultaneously safeguarding the interests of the local community.

The implementation follows a deliberative process that began in May 2025, involving extensive consultations with stakeholders and business operators in Labuan Bajo. This move aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to champion ecotourism that balances natural wealth preservation with community welfare.

In a move to alleviate pressure on the natural habitat, Deputy Forestry Minister Rohmat Marzuki revealed plans for ex-situ conservation efforts.

"In the future, we plan for Komodo breeding outside the National Park area. This could serve as an alternative tourist destination for the public without disturbing their original habitat," explained Rohmat.

This dual strategy aims to satisfy tourism demand while maintaining the pristine condition of the park's fragile ecosystem. ***