Ministry Sets Periodic Evaluation for Komodo Visitor Quota

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry is adopting a dynamic approach to tourism management within Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), signaling that current visitor caps may be adjusted as infrastructure improves.

Speaking during a parliamentary recess visit to Labuan Bajo on Friday, April 24, 2026, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Rohmat Marzuki, emphasized that while ecological preservation remains the priority, the government is committed to a flexible regulatory framework.

"We agree that in principle, there must be restrictions for the sake of ecological balance. However, we will continue to conduct ongoing studies and periodic evaluations. Along with the improvements to facilities and infrastructure, we will be making on Padar Island this year, such as arranging trekking routes and the entry and exit docks, increasing the quota will likely be considered," said Rohmat Marzuki, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that the ongoing upgrades to trekking paths and docking facilities on Padar Island could pave the way for increased capacity. "We will involve representatives from the association in conducting a joint study. We are also encouraging the development of ex-situ Komodo conservation outside the national park, such as on mainland Flores, Longos Island, and Golomori, as alternative destinations for tourists."

The annual visitor limit is currently set at 365,000 people. However, officials stressed that this figure is not static and will evolve alongside the environment's carrying capacity.

To prevent over-tourism in specific hotspots, the Ministry, through the Komodo National Park, is developing a distribution strategy to spread foot traffic across multiple sites. This includes promoting ex-situ conservation areas in Flores, Longos Island, and Golomori as viable alternative destinations.

The policy has found support within the legislature, though with caveats regarding its implementation. Speaker of the House of Representatives Commission IV, Siti Hediati Hariyadi, popularly known as Titiek Soeharto, described the restrictions as a necessary long-term investment for the local economy.

"The spirit of this policy is correct, aiming to preserve the ecosystem and beauty of this place for the long term. However, we want the transition to be gradual and involve the local community. We don't want tourists who have come all this way to be disappointed," she said.

The Ministry of Forestry has invited industry associations to participate in joint studies to ensure the quotas remain realistic and fair. This initiative fosters a collaborative governance model for one of Indonesia’s most vital conservation assets. ***