Seychelles explores cooperation in hot spring tourism development in Berau

Berau Regency has many unique and attractive natural tourism destinations, one of which is natural hot springs that remain open for development in terms of facilities, accommodation, attractions, and other aspects to increase visits, said Berau Deputy Regent Gamalis in Tanjung Redeb on Tuesday. The Republic of Seychelles, an African nation, is exploring cooperation to develop the Pemapak Hot Springs in Biatan Bapinang Village, Biatan District, Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, as an effort to boost visitor numbers. Visitor numbers to the hot springs have been relatively high; for example, during the 2025 Christmas to 2026 New Year holiday, around 4,500 visitors were recorded, and after reopening following renovations from 21-25 March 2026, approximately 5,600 visitors were recorded. Investment support is a key factor in further developing growing destinations, which is expected to provide added value for the regional economy and the welfare of the local community. Gamalis expressed hope for more collaboration and incoming investment to optimise tourism destination development, including interest from Seychelles investors in nature-based tourism. This interest was evident when Gamalis accompanied the Seychelles Presidential Envoy for ASEAN, Nico Barito, on a visit to the hot spring attraction on Monday (20 July). He noted that Nico Barito’s visit was a momentum to introduce Berau’s leading tourism potential while discussing in-depth opportunities for development based on local wisdom. Nico Barito stated that Pemapak Hot Springs has strong appeal to be developed as a sustainable tourism destination, ensuring that the economic impact on the local community can be felt continuously. He emphasised that tourism development cannot rely solely on natural beauty and existing riches but must also elevate local stories and identity that differentiate the destination from others. He added that every destination must have its own story, as a strong narrative makes tourists curious to visit and even return with relatives. Therefore, the local wisdom of the communities around the area must become part of the tourism experience, which he continues to encourage to accelerate development. Nico further said that the development of the Pemapak Hot Springs destination also needs to be strengthened with an experience-based tourism concept, presenting attractions that highlight local culture and adding supporting activities so that visitor numbers remain consistent throughout the year rather than being seasonal.