The Riau Archipelago (Kepri) offers a wealth of enchanting village destinations, rich with natural beauty and cultural heritage, drawing tourists seeking authentic and diverse experiences.
The Kepulauan Riau province is leveraging its unique assets to develop its villages into premier destinations that attract tourists from around the globe. These villages showcase a blend of breathtaking natural scenery and deep-rooted traditions, supported by initiatives such as the Anugerah Desa Wisata Indonesia (ADWI), which aims to highlight Indonesian villages as world-class tourism destinations.
1. Resun, Lingga
Resun Village in North Lingga District, recognized among the top 300 in ADWI 2023, captivates visitors with its scenic waterfalls, like Mak Unggal and Pak Mentoh, and a lush mangrove forest. Tourists can explore these natural treasures through activities such as mangrove forest tours and overnight camping along Sungai Kim, offered at about SGD 21 (250,000 IDR). The village is celebrated for its cultural heritage, including traditional dances and local festivals, which provide a deep dive into the area’s rich cultural fabric.
2. Mekar Jaya, Natuna
Included in the top 300 of ADWI 2022, Mekar Jaya in Bunguran Barat offers a “Back to Nature” theme. This village has managed its mangrove ecosystems since 2018, providing pathways for tourists to appreciate the area’s natural beauty by foot or speed boat. Visitors can also engage in local activities such as crab catching and processing mangrove fruit into flour, enhancing their experience with hands-on environmental interaction.
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3. Kampung Tua Bakau Serip, Batam
This village in Nongsa District made it to the top 50 of ADWI 2022 and is renowned for its mangrove ecotourism and pristine sandy beaches that overlook Singapore and Malaysia. Kampung Tua Bakau Serip focuses on conservation and educational tourism, making it a crucial site for ecological studies and nature lovers.
4. Penyengat Island, Tanjungpinang
Just 2 km from Tanjungpinang, Penyengat is an island rich in history and culture. Known for the Sultan Riau Grand Mosque, constructed with egg whites as a binder, and the tombs of historical figures, it offers cultural insights into the region’s past. The island is also a hub for traditional boat racing and offers a taste of local Malay cuisine, making it a culturally enriching destination for visitors.
5. Cemaga Tengah, Natuna
A recent entrant in the top 50 of ADWI 2024, Cemaga Tengah boasts of geological wonders estimated to be 65 million years old. As part of the National Geopark, the village offers attractions like Kasah Beach, surrounded by ancient granite formations. This site combines geological education with scenic beauty, attracting both local and international tourists interested in earth sciences and natural beauty.
The development of village tourism in the Riau Archipelago is expected to enhance the regional appeal and bring economic benefits to local communities. Sandiaga Uno’s goal of establishing 6,000 village destinations by 2024 aims to contribute approximately 4.5% to the national GDP and create millions of new jobs, reflecting a significant boost in the national economy. For Singaporeans and international visitors, these village destinations offer a unique glimpse into Indonesia’s rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty, enriching their travel experience in the region.
Kepri’s village destinations are fast becoming key attractions, blending rich cultural heritage with stunning natural environments to offer unique and enriching experiences for tourists, contributing significantly to local and national economic growth.
Source: Gokepri (2024)
