Dora Sinaga

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Empowering Indonesia’s Coastal Communities: Lessons from Pandang Tak Jemu, Batam

Indonesia, as the world’s largest archipelagic nation, holds an extraordinary richness in marine and coastal resources. With more than 17,000 islands, its coastal communities are the first line of defense for ocean conservation. They are also key partners in building a sustainable and inclusive marine tourism sector. The people who live by the sea fishers, local entrepreneurs, and youth are the heartbeat of Indonesia’s blue economy. When empowered, they can become true agents of change, promoting responsible tourism that regenerates both nature and community well-being.

Coastal Communities as Guardians of the Ocean

For generations, Indonesia’s coastal communities have lived in harmony with the sea. Their deep knowledge of tides, reefs, and seasons forms the foundation of sustainable marine life management. Today, that wisdom is more relevant than ever. In many areas, communities are leading local conservation programs, developing small-scale tourism businesses, and guiding visitors to experience the beauty of the ocean responsibly.

When communities take ownership of tourism, it creates pride and accountability. Visitors do not just come to see the beach as they come to learn, to participate, and to leave a positive impact. This approach can be seen clearly in Pandang Tak Jemu, an inspiring example from Batam, Riau Islands.

Pandang Tak Jemu as a Model for Regenerative Marine Tourism

Located in Kampung Tua Bakau Serip, Batam, Pandang Tak Jemu is a coastal village that has transformed its mangrove forest into a thriving community-based ecotourism site. Local residents manage the area through the Pokdarwis (Tourism Awareness Group). It offers mangrove trails, local food stalls, homestays, and educational tours for visitors and students.

What makes Pandang Tak Jemu special is its community-driven leadership. Every aspect of the tourism experience from guiding visitors through mangrove walkways to selling handmade crafts is managed by locals. The initiative not only protects the mangrove ecosystem but also generates income, provides jobs, and raises environmental awareness among residents and visitors.

The Ministry of Tourism have recognized its success, listing Pandang Tak Jemu among the Top 50 Tourism Villages in Indonesia (ADWI 2022). With its strong collaboration between community, government, and academic institutions, Pandang Tak Jemu represents the spirit of sustainable tourism in action.

So, what are the tourist guides role here?

Tourist guides in destinations like Pandang Tak Jemu are not just interpreters, they are educators and cultural ambassadors. They introduce visitors to the local ecosystem, explain how mangroves protect the coastline, and share stories about the community’s heritage. By guiding tourists respectfully through fragile ecosystems, they help protect the environment while enriching visitor experiences.

Empowering and training tourist guides in sustainability, environmental interpretation, and storytelling can greatly amplify their impact nationwide. Well-trained guides can transform tourism from a simple sightseeing activity into an educational journey. This journey builds respect for Indonesia’s marine heritage.

However, local communities and guides cannot work alone. They need strong support and direction from local government. This is where the Batam City Department of Culture and Tourism (Disbudpar Batam) plays a vital role. It acts as a catalyst for change.

The leadership of local government is crucial in transforming marine tourism into a force for regeneration. Batam can serve as a blueprint by integrating sustainability principles into tourism planning. It can also strengthen community capacity and attract responsible investors. This approach shows how Indonesia’s coastal destinations can successfully balance economic prosperity with environmental protection.

To be continued: Looking Ahead. The Batam City Department of Culture and Tourism plays a role in Batam Island. This highlights its significance as a tourist destination.