Maratua seeks stronger regional links to expand international diving tourism.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism has promoted Maratua Island in Berau, East Kalimantan, as a marine and diving destination to dive centre representatives from Malaysia and Singapore through the Famtrip Marine Maratua 2026.
Held from 10–15 August 2026, the programme aimed to strengthen Maratua as one of Indonesia’s leading marine and diving destinations while expanding tourism business networks with industry players in both markets.
Indonesia’s Deputy for Tourism Marketing, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, said the programme allowed dive centre representatives to experience Maratua’s tourism offerings first-hand, including diving, accommodation and other activities.
The ministry hopes their experience will encourage participating operators to consider including Maratua in travel packages offered to tourists from Malaysia and Singapore.
During the six-day programme, participants spent three days diving at nine sites, experiencing Maratua’s underwater environment, diving services, accommodation and destination readiness to receive international visitors.
The itinerary also included visits to Goa Gumantung, a sunset experience in Teluk Harapan and site visits to several accommodation providers. Participants also visited Tumbit Dayak Village to learn about local culture and products.
The programme also brought participants together with local tourism industry players through a networking event, creating opportunities to introduce local products and services and explore potential partnerships.
These activities highlighted Maratua’s potential beyond diving, combining its marine attractions with nature, culture and local community experiences.
Indonesia’s Assistant Deputy for International Tourism Marketing Development I, Dedi Ahmad Kurnia, said Malaysia and Singapore are strategic tourism markets, including for specialised travel such as diving.
Statistics Indonesia (BPS) recorded 1,361,772 visits by Malaysian travellers and 739,721 visits by Singaporean travellers to Indonesia through June 2026.
Mr Dedi said the figures demonstrate the potential to further develop and market specialised tourism products, particularly marine and diving experiences.
With its underwater attractions complemented by natural landscapes, cultural heritage and local experiences, Maratua has strong potential to grow as a competitive specialised tourism destination. Stronger links with regional dive operators could help expand international promotion while creating broader opportunities for local accommodation, guides, transport, food and other tourism businesses.
Source: ANTARA News
