Bangka Belitung Province comprises several islands, most notably Bangka Island and Belitung Island, and is situated off the northeastern coast of Sumatra. The province boasts a long coastline dominated by mangrove ecosystems totalling more than 67,000 hectares total across the islands. These mangroves are not only numerous, but ancient and healthy. These mangrove and other coastal ecosystems provide much-needed climate protection to local communities. The province’s coastline is also known for its beaches and coral reefs, both of which have the potential to drive tourism on the islands.
Indonesian Nature Conservation Foundation (YKAN), in partnership with Tahija Foundation (Yayasan Tahija), has launched “Improving Local Community Livelihoods through Protection and Restoration of Coastal Mangrove Ecosystems in Bangka Belitung Islands.” The initiative seeks to improve local communities’ welfare through mangrove restoration, encouraging greater community participation in managing vital coastal habitats and marine resources. Nature-based businesses such as sustainable aquaculture and ecotourism can create sustainable sources of income for local communities and drive conservation of coastal mangrove and marine ecosystems.
CSF Indonesia is supporting the initiative in the Bangka Belitung Islands through an assessment of visitor carrying capacity for a tourist location in Takari Beach, Rebo Village, on the island of Bangka. Rebo is one of six YKAN-assisted villages in the Province engaging in blue economy, sustainable tourism efforts. The tourist site to be studied by CSF Indonesia is a beach managed by one micro-enterprise group and it is hoped that it may provide a model for other sites and groups in the area.
This study employed field observation methods to collect primary data on the biophysical conditions and tourism-supporting infrastructure at Takari Beach. The tourism suitability analysis was conducted using the Tourism Suitability Index (IKW), which evaluates the feasibility of the area for tourism development based on specific environmental parameters. Additionally, the Carrying Capacity (DDK) assessment was carried out to determine the maximum number of visitors the beach can accommodate without causing environmental stress or degradation.
Results
The assessment of Takari Beach’s tourism carrying capacity demonstrates its strong potential for development as a sustainable marine tourism destination. With a Tourism Suitability Index (IKW) score of 2.59, the beach is classified as “Highly Suitable” (S1), indicating excellent biophysical conditions and adequate supporting infrastructure for tourism activities. Under current conditions, the Carrying Capacity (DDK) analysis estimates that the beach can accommodate up to 1,032 visitors per day without compromising environmental integrity or visitor comfort.
To ensure long-term sustainability, a series of management strategies is recommended. These include daily monitoring of visitor numbers and regulating access in line with the site’s carrying capacity. Infrastructure upgrades are also essential, including improved sanitation facilities, organized parking areas, and the installation of safety signage, environmental education boards, and zoning maps. Additionally, strategically placed waste bins are crucial for maintaining cleanliness and enhancing the overall visitor experience. It is hoped that this project will inform the sustainable development of eco-tourism and other eco-businesses in Bangka Belitung Province, and the protection and restoration of local mangroves.
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Our partner for this project is the Indonesian Nature Conservation Foundation (YKAN)
Photo: Takari Beach, by Nuraini, CSF