Nature reserve needs protection

Nature reserve needs protection

From Kompas

An article in Kompas on May 31, 2002 talks about the natural potential of Sempu Island. The writer suggests that this island should be made into a tourist resort.

In this respect, the writer may not have been aware that the island is a nature reserve due to its unique vegetation, animals and ecosystem and must therefore be protected.

This area is protected so that it develops naturally and is used only for research, scientific and educational purposes and must not be used as a camping ground or a resort for recreation and adventure. A special permit is needed to enter this nature reserve.

Sempu Island was made a nature reserve by virtue of the decision issued by Dutch Indies governor general on March 15, 1928, in Decision No. 46, Statute Book No. 69. Measuring a total of 877 hectares and managed by East Java Center II for Natural Resources Conservation, it is one of conservation areas in Indonesia.

The above article reminds us, however, what a great and diversified natural environment this country is endowed with which belongs to the entire Indonesian people, in particular, and to the world community, in general. This potential must be conserved to ensure that it will benefit our present life and the future generations.

DENI

Malang, East Java