Batu Ampar Mangrove Ecotourism Encouraged to Become an Economic Resource for Kubu Raya Residents

KUBU RAYA, LINE EARTH, GARISBUMI.com – The mangrove area in Batu Ampar Village, Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan (Kalbar), is being encouraged to become an ecotourism destination that opens up income opportunities for the community. The development of environmentally based tourism is expected to strengthen mangrove protection and at the same time stimulate the businesses of coastal residents.

The Kubu Raya Regency Youth, Sports and Tourism Service (Disporapar) together with the Pontianak City Peat and Mangrove Ecosystem Management Center (BPEGM) introduced this development direction through the socialization of the Independent Mangrove Care Village Program (DMPM) in Batu Ampar Village, Batu Ampar District, Saturday (3/10/2026).

Head of the Kubu Raya Regency Disporapar, Indah Yuliastuti, said that mangroves have an important ecological function as well as the potential to be developed as a sustainable tourist destination. However, management needs to place local communities as the main actors.

"Strengthening community institutions is the key so that mangrove management can run sustainably. Local communities must be the main part in maintaining and obtaining economic benefits from the existence of this ecosystem," said Indah.

Low Impact Tourism, Opportunities for MSMEs

According to Indah, the development of Batu Ampar mangrove ecotourism is expected to create added economic value while protecting the area from activities that have the potential to damage the environment. One activity of concern is the unsustainable use of mangroves for charcoal production.

Destination development is directed using the concept of low impact tourism. Through this approach, mangrove areas can offer educational tourism experiences while still paying attention to environmental sustainability.

It is hoped that comfortable and quality tour packages can extend the length of tourist visits. The presence of visitors is also expected to open up marketing opportunities for local community micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) products.