Environmental advocates raise objection to seaside development in Labuan Bajo, call for sustainable conservation

An independent environmental body, Badan Peduli Taman Nasional Komodo dan Perairan Sekitarnya (BPTNKPS), has voiced serious concerns over the growing number of villa and hotel developments being constructed above the waters of Labuan Bajo in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. 

In a formal letter dated April 5, 2025, addressed to the Governor of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), BPTNKPS expressed strong objection to what they see as an alarming disregard for coastal zoning laws and environmental sustainability in the region—particularly in areas overlapping with the Komodo National Park and its surrounding marine ecosystems.

Labuan Bajo, situated on the western tip of Flores Island, has rapidly grown into one of Indonesia’s most sought-after premium tourist destinations, thanks to its proximity to the world-renowned Komodo National Park, home to the iconic Komodo dragons, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine islands. 

The area was designated as one of Indonesia’s "super-priority tourism destinations" by the national government and continues to attract international travelers, investors, and tourism developers.

While development is inevitable, environmental groups are calling for a more responsible and sustainable approach to growth.

BPTNKPS is an independent body composed largely of environmentally conscious laypeople, particularly those committed to the protection of Komodo National Park and the surrounding seas. The group’s chairman, Fr. Marsel Agot, SVD, was appointed at the request of these concerned citizens due to his leadership and environmental advocacy.

“In preserving this precious ecosystem, we will install mooring buoys to prevent damage to coral reefs caused by boat anchors, and we will continue our conservation efforts to ensure the health of our waters,” Fr. Agot said.

In its official letter, BPTNKPS cited multiple issues currently affecting West Manggarai’s coastal zones, including:

Violations of Coastal Boundaries and Alleged Land Parceling – The construction of tourism infrastructure, such as villas and resorts, has reportedly led to illegal occupation of public coastal land and even the sea surface. In several cases, private developments have blocked public access to beaches, sparking outcry from local residents.

Regulatory Non-Compliance – The group pointed out that many of these projects appear to violate Indonesian spatial planning laws, particularly Law No. 27 of 2007 (as amended by Law No. 1 of 2014), which governs the management of coastal areas and small islands. 

BPTNKPS is calling for immediate spatial analysis using GIS, legal review, and the implementation of Strategic Environmental Assessments (KLHS) and Detailed Spatial Plans (RDTR) to address these violations.

The statement also referenced national media coverage highlighting public concern, such as “Investor Bangun Vila di Atas Laut, Warga Labuan Bajo Dilarang Masuk Pantai” which revealed rising tensions between local communities and investors over restricted beach access.

Given the critical role of Labuan Bajo as a gateway to Komodo National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—BPTNKPS urges local and provincial governments to take decisive action in defending public rights and protecting the ecological integrity of the region.

“We are not against development,” Fr. Agot added, “but it must be just, legal, and sustainable.”

For further correspondence, BPTNKPS can be reached at:

Badan Peduli Taman Nasional Komodo dan Perairan Sekitarnya (BPTNKPS)

Jl. Soekarno Hatta Bawah no. 88, Labuan Bajo, Komodo, West Manggarai

Email: badanpedulitnk@gmail.com