The sea supports Wakatobi's life, tourism needs to protect the ecosystem

WAKATOBI, GARISBUMI.com – Preserving marine ecosystems is an important part of the future of the people of Wakatobi, Southeast Sulawesi. The sea supports people's livelihoods and is part of the identity and culture that is passed down between generations.

The Regent of Wakatobi, Haliana, emphasized this relationship in a statement delivered by the Public Relations of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). According to him, development of archipelagic areas needs to pay attention to the sustainability of natural resources on which people's lives depend.

"For the Wakatobi people, the sea is not just a place to earn a living. The sea is our identity, culture and part of our lives. Therefore, protecting the marine ecosystem means also maintaining the sustainability of the life and future of the Wakatobi people," said Haliana.

Tourism depends on marine sustainability

Haliana said Wakatobi was included in Indonesia's 10 priority tourism destinations. This position opens up opportunities for developing marine tourism to improve community welfare.

However, he emphasized the need for a balance between tourism development and environmental preservation. It is hoped that the region's economic potential can be utilized through activities that maintain natural resources.

In this context, marine ecosystem protection is directly related to the sustainability of residents' livelihoods and the attractiveness of Wakatobi marine tourism. Tourism development needs to consider these two interests in area management.