Njau Anau: North Kalimantan Targets Growth as a Leading Tourist Destination

Njau Anau: North Kalimantan Targets Growth as a Leading Tourist Destination. Photo credit: Njau Anau.

BORNEOTRAVEL - TANJUNG SELOR: Dr. Njau Anau, Head of the Culture and Tourism Department of North Kalimantan, is leading the province's efforts to become one of Indonesia’s top tourist destinations. 

North Kalimantan spans a vast area of 75,467.70 km², with 13% of it covered by ocean. 

The province is rich in natural resources, featuring pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and extensive rivers, making it a prime destination for eco-tourism and adventure tourism. Its strategic location on the border with Malaysia's Sabah and Sarawak, as well as Brunei Darussalam, boosts its appeal to both regional and international tourists.

Strategic Location and Rich Natural Resources as Key Assets

In addition to its stunning landscapes, North Kalimantan boasts over 300 tourist attractions, ranging from natural wonders like Kayan Mentarang National Park, Tanah Kuning, and Pantai Kelapa, to the vibrant cultural heritage of its indigenous Dayak people.

Dr. Njau emphasizes that these assets position the province to attract a diverse range of travelers, offering both nature-based and cultural experiences that can drive economic growth and improve the welfare of local communities.

"North Kalimantan has over 300 tourist destinations scattered across the region, and these attractions have great potential for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural exploration," Dr. Njau shared with BORNEOTRAVEL

Key highlights include famous areas such as the Kayan Mentarang National Park, known for its rich biodiversity, the Derawan Islands, which boast world-class marine life, and the province's scenic rivers that are perfect for eco-tourism and river cruising. 

The province's geographical advantage – bordering Malaysia’s Sabah and Sarawak states, as well as Brunei Darussalam – enhances its appeal as a regional tourism hub, especially for travelers from Southeast Asia. Its close proximity to these neighboring countries provides an easy gateway for international visitors.

“North Kalimantan’s rich natural beauty combined with its diverse culture offers a unique experience for tourists,” Dr. Njau added. The province's natural landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, rivers, and coastal regions, make it an ideal destination for those seeking an untouched and authentic travel experience. The vast areas of protected nature reserves and the opportunity to explore traditional villages offer visitors an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Borneo.

Njau Anau's Vision for Promoting North Kalimantan’s Tourism Potential

Under Dr. Njau's leadership, North Kalimantan has ramped up efforts to promote the province’s tourism potential both domestically and internationally. “We are fully committed to transforming North Kalimantan into a global tourism destination. We’ve been actively promoting the region through social media platforms, engaging with influencers, and collaborating with travel agencies to highlight the diverse attractions our province has to offer,” Dr. Njau stated. 

These promotional strategies are designed to reach both national and international audiences, showcasing the province's wide range of natural and cultural assets. From its untouched beaches to the stunning cultural heritage of the Dayak people, North Kalimantan is positioned to offer travelers a unique, authentic experience.

In addition to its natural beauty, North Kalimantan is also focusing on the richness of its cultural heritage. The province is home to several indigenous groups, notably the Dayak people, whose deep-rooted traditions, ceremonies, and unique ways of life are an essential part of the tourist experience. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional cultures, explore indigenous villages, and witness vibrant cultural performances. 

"Cultural tourism is one of our key focuses. We want tourists not only to enjoy the natural landscapes but also to experience the rich heritage of our people," Dr. Njau explained.

The provincial government is investing heavily in infrastructure, aiming to make North Kalimantan more accessible to tourists. Transportation networks are being improved, and more accommodation options are being developed to cater to growing visitor numbers. 

Sustainable tourism boosts economy, culture, and growth

Efforts are underway to ensure that tourism development is sustainable, preserving the environment and local traditions while promoting economic growth. Dr. Njau emphasized that tourism is seen as a key driver of economic growth, which can provide significant opportunities for local businesses, create jobs, and improve the overall welfare of the population.

"With our strategic location, we believe North Kalimantan has the potential to become one of Indonesia's premier tourist destinations. We're confident that with continued investment in tourism infrastructure, combined with a solid promotional strategy, we will attract both regional and international tourists in increasing numbers," 

Dr. Njau said, "As the province continues to develop its tourism sector, it is set to offer a fresh, exciting alternative to other established destinations in Indonesia." 

He added, "This promises a unique and enriching experience for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty."

-- Pungga Buing