JAKARTA, Dec. 4 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia, through the local government of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) province, is developing ecology-based whale shark tourism in Saleh Bay, located on Sumbawa Island, an official said on Wednesday.
Muslim, head of the NTB Marine Affairs and Fisheries Office, said that his team, along with regional organizations and academics, would first draft standard operating procedures for managing whale shark tourism. They also plan to design spatial delineation for conservation areas and develop schemes to sustain local economic activities.
"Whale sharks are a unique attraction. Not all regions have this. Therefore, we should prioritize the protection and conservation of whale shark biota to ensure their sustainability," Muslim said in a statement from Mataram, as quoted by local media.
Covering an area of 1,459 square kilometers, Saleh Bay is reported to be a breeding habitat for whale sharks, making it a distinctive draw for both domestic and international tourists. Sumbawa Island itself is renowned for its waves, sandy beaches, and coral reefs, adding to its allure as a resort destination. ■