Tanjung Lesung Assessed as Having Potential to Become a Recovery Space

The Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Indonesia Chapter, Dr. (HC) Setyono Djuandi Darmono, has assessed that the Tanjung Lesung tourist area in Pandeglang Regency, Banten, has the potential to develop not only as a tourist destination but also as a recovery space or sanctuary. Darmono stated in a written statement received in Jakarta on Thursday that Indonesia has many areas with the potential to become sanctuaries, one of which is Tanjung Lesung, whose location is relatively close to Jakarta. He said that changes in global conditions, influenced by the economic slowdown, geopolitical conflicts, and the impacts of climate change, have led many people to seek places that can provide a sense of security and tranquillity. According to him, Tanjung Lesung offers peace, comfort, and closeness to nature amidst various global uncertainties. In the context of tourism, environmental qualities such as clean beaches, preserved forests, healthy coral reefs, and sustainable local culture are important factors sought by tourists, he said. He added that sustainably managed tourism can act as an instrument of conservation, rather than merely a consumption-oriented industry. According to Darmono, Tanjung Lesung has the opportunity to develop a tourism model that focuses more on the quality of the tourist experience rather than merely pursuing visitor numbers. He hopes that future development of the tourist area can provide economic benefits while supporting environmental conservation and the empowerment of surrounding communities. With the presence of a toll road that will soon be completed, Tanjung Lesung is not only becoming geographically closer but is also increasingly relevant to the needs of people seeking a balance between tourism activities and being close to nature, he said.