Invest SEA and the Regional Autonomy Implementation Monitoring Committee (KPPOD) have agreed to promote investment in the fisheries and ecotourism sectors in Natuna, Riau Islands (Kepri). Invest SEA is a non-profit organization that encourages sustainable investment in Southeast Asia. This agreement was reached during a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) involving the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub), and Natuna Geopark management. The event took place in Jakarta on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. Natuna, with over 98% of its area as ocean, boasts rich marine biodiversity. It is part of Fisheries Management Area (WPP) 711, with an estimated Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) of 1,306,379 tons/year and an allowable catch (JTB) of 911,534 tons/year. Catur Sarwanto, Director of Business and Investment at KKP, stated that Natuna has significant fish resource potential, with WPP 711's potential reaching 911,000 tons/year.
Fish farming potential, such as for grouper and napoleon fish, has been exported to Malaysia, Japan, and Singapore. However, this potential has not been fully optimized. "We hope investment will develop this sector. The Ministry is currently targeting USD 9 trillion in investment in the marine and fisheries sector, and Natuna is a key area for this investment," said Catur in a press release on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Natuna also offers geological and biodiversity experiences within the Natuna Geopark, as well as historical site explorations. Basri, Head of the Natuna Geopark, highlighted that Natuna’s geographical diversity, geological heritage, rich biodiversity, and cultural diversity make it a noteworthy national and international tourism destination. Despite its abundant potential, access to Natuna remains challenging. Safrudin, Expert Inspector of the Directorate of Air Transport at the Ministry of Transportation, explained that the government, involving aviation stakeholders, is discussing the detailed components of aircraft operational costs to adjust to current price conditions. Armand Suparman, Executive Director of KPPOD, added that in the post-reform decentralization era, the private sector should collaborate more effectively with Natuna. However, investment growth is hindered by regulations and bureaucracy, such as licensing and infrastructure issues.
