Tourism Minister Highlights Connectivity as Key to Belitung's Tourism Growth

RRI.CO.ID, Belitung - Indonesia's Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, held a meeting with the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ) management to evaluate and synchronize cross-sectoral work programs for Belitung's tourism development. She said that connectivity is key to Belitung's ability to increase its competitiveness as a world-class destination.

While inspecting the Tanjung Kelayang SEZ on Sunday, July 5, 2026, the Minister stated that the Tanjung Kelayang SEZ is a strategic area for national tourism development. "This SEZ is not only an investment gateway, but also a showcase for Belitung tourism, prioritizing sustainable development, cultural preservation, marine tourism, geotourism, culinary arts, and strengthening local MSMEs," she said.

This area is also home to a diverse range of biodiversity. Fauna species include pangolins, tarsiers, mouse deer, endemic dragonflies, and sea eagles.

Florally, the area is home to the endemic Hopea bilitonensis, or frond tree, and the ghost orchid, a unique orchid species lacking chlorophyll that relies on fungi for its survival. The Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is also a natural habitat for the pelawan fungus.

The arrival of Scoot flights connecting Singapore and Belitung is a crucial momentum for strengthening international accessibility to Belitung, particularly the Tanjung Kelayang SEZ. "This direct connectivity not only opens up opportunities for increased international tourist visits but also strengthens Belitung's position as a national priority destination, offering advantages in marine tourism, geotourism, culture, gastronomy, and community-based tourism villages," the Minister said.

One ongoing development is the construction of a low-density resort utilizing locally sourced materials, as well as the development of special interest tourism destinations. In terms of recreational facilities, the Tanjung Kelayang Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has introduced a pickleball court, which has received a positive response from tourists.