Forestry Minister: Protecting ecology, Komodo National Park tourist limits to prevent over-tourism

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni stated that the visitor quota restriction in Komodo National Park is implemented to prevent over-tourism, or the arrival of tourists exceeding the conservation area’s capacity, which could impact the environment.

“Our decision to limit the tourist quota is based on research showing that long-term over-tourism would result in damage to the area and the loss of its tourism appeal,” said Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni in a statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Delivered during a working meeting with Commission IV of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni explained that the restriction is a strategic step to protect Komodo National Park as the primary habitat for wildlife, especially the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis), which is only found in Indonesia, and the local community.

The quota restriction focuses on three main destinations: Padar Island, Rinca Island, and Komodo Island, including 23 diving sites around them. Starting 1 April 2026, the visitor quota is set at 1,000 people per day or around 365,000 people per year.

The Forestry Minister emphasised that the policy was not taken hastily but has undergone a long process since May 2025 through various discussions with stakeholders and business actors in Labuan Bajo.

The policy, the Forestry Minister continued, is in line with the directives of President Prabowo Subianto to support eco-tourism that preserves natural wealth while providing positive implications for community welfare.

“In the future, we plan to breed Komodo dragons outside the National Park area. This can become an alternative tourism destination for the public without disturbing their original habitat,” explained the Deputy Forestry Minister.