By: Tasrif Kartawijaya
The mangrove forests of Karimunjawa have remained relatively stable over the past 10 years, although threats from illegal harvesting for firewood remain. But tourism on the islands has doubled since 2007, with around 6000 visitors in 2012. Now, the plan allows for a more sustainable approach to tourism associated with mangrove trekking.
The plan allows for local people and businesses to take advantage of the mangrove boardwalk managed by the Karimunjawa National Park Authority and to get involved in travel information services, guiding, transportation, travel and hospitality.
In a series of meetings from October 2012 to March 2013 between the Park authority, WCS, the village government of Kemujan and communities of Kemujan, a community based “mangrove trekking association” was established to represent those involved in mangrove trekking in Karimunjawa.
The association will gain permission from the National Park Authority to further develop the mangrove trekking business that will provide employment opportunities and a new income source for local communities.