Just a quick 45-minute flight from Jakarta, and you’ll find yourself landing in Belitung – an island that’s quietly stealing the spotlight in Indonesia’s travel scene. Famous for its turquoise waters, giant granite boulders and idyllic castaway island charm, Belitung is also home to the Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, part of the prestigious UNESCO Global Geopark network.
Surrounded by more than 200 tiny islands and a stunning marine ecosystem, this isn’t just another beach escape – it’s a travel destination with a heart, where sustainability and eco-friendly tourism take centre stage. Nestled right inside the reserve are a handpicked selection of hotels, including the Sheraton Belitung Resort, where we recently stayed to experience a slice of luxury surrounded by nature at its most pristine.
To learn more about the magic of the reserve, we caught up with Daniel Alexander Napitupulu, Director of Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, who shared how Belitung is shaping the future of eco-travel in Indonesia.
Table of Contents
Q1) Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is all about preserving nature whilst still welcoming guests to explore its beauty. How do you strike that balance between keeping the reserve wild and giving visitors a magical experience?
At Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, our guiding principle is “nature leads, we follow.” Every trail, villa and activity is designed to fit around the existing landscape rather than the other way around. We want guests to feel the magic of the wild – hearing the birds at dawn, walking barefoot on natural paths – but we ensure that this comes with minimal disturbance. It’s not about bringing luxury into nature; it’s about letting nature define what luxury means.
Q2) Sustainability runs through everything you do at Tanjung Kelayang Reserve – from the materials used in your buildings to the way you manage water and energy. Where did that eco-first philosophy come from, and how do you keep raising the bar?
That mindset comes from our very beginning. The nature inspired us to ask, “How can development protect rather than consume?” From there, we decided every decision must have an environmental filter – from using reclaimed wood to building our own sustainable water treatment plant. Sustainability isn’t a marketing story here; it’s operational DNA.
Q3) We’ve heard about some of the amazing conservation projects happening inside the reserve, such as restoring forest areas and releasing endangered species back into the wild. Can you share one that’s especially close to your heart?
One project that’s especially meaningful to me is our wildlife release programme, particularly the reintroduction of the Sunda Pangolin – one of Southeast Asia’s most endangered and trafficked species. What makes this project truly special is not just the act of releasing the animals back into their natural habitat, but the trust we’ve built with local communities to make it possible.
Q4) Visiting Tanjung Kelayang Reserve isn’t just about seeing the beauty firsthand, it’s about learning too. How do you give guests those hands-on, eco-experiences that make them feel truly connected to Belitung’s nature?
We want guests to feel part of nature, not just observers. One of our most meaningful programmes invites guests to plant rare native trees alongside our local biologist, who explains the species’ ecological roles and how they support the surrounding wildlife. It’s a simple yet powerful moment.
Q5) Being part of the Belitung UNESCO Global Geopark is a pretty big deal! What does that recognition mean for the reserve, and how does it shape your vision moving forward?
It’s both an honour and a responsibility. The UNESCO designation reinforces that Belitung’s geology, biodiversity and culture are globally significant. For us, it sets a framework to align tourism with education and conservation. Our vision is to make Tanjung Kelayang Reserve a living classroom where science, culture and community come together for sustainable growth.
Q6) Sometimes the best eco-innovations are the ones that guests don’t even notice. What’s one behind-the-scenes feature on the reserve that you’re especially proud of?
One thing guests rarely notice is our zero-waste water management system. Every drop is accounted for – without a deep well, from rainwater harvesting and natural filtration ponds. It’s quietly working behind the scenes to minimise waste, yet it’s one of the most impactful features we’ve built. Silent sustainability is often the most powerful.
Q7) Ecotourism works best when local communities are at the heart of it. How do you partner with local villages and artisans so that the reserve benefits the people of Belitung as much as it does the planet?
Ecotourism can’t thrive without community. We collaborate with nearby villages and artisans to ensure economic benefits stay local – from locally sourced food to guided tours run by residents. Many of our team members are from Belitung itself, which means the Reserve’s success directly supports families and preserves local craftsmanship.
Q8) Belitung is home to so many natural treasures, including dramatic rock formations and rare wildlife. What is one highlight that you are especially excited for visitors to experience?
What I truly want guests to experience is not just a view, but a feeling – that sense of space and serenity you find among Belitung’s ancient granite boulders. When you stand there, surrounded by nature’s sculpted stones and the freshest air you can breathe, time seems to slow down.
Q9) Looking to the future, what’s next for Tanjung Kelayang Reserve? Are there any exciting new sustainability goals or eco-projects you’re working towards?
Right now, our main focus is developing the Blue Mind Initiative – a project dedicated to marine biodiversity and guest education around ocean health. The ocean is the heart of Belitung, and through this initiative, we aim to deepen people’s connection with it.
Q10) What’s your top tip for travellers looking to come and stay at one of the resorts in Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, to ensure they are responsibly exploring this stunning area?
Travel slowly and with intention. Take only memories, leave only footprints – and even those, lightly. Choose local experiences, respect wildlife, and embrace the rhythm of nature rather than trying to control it. The most responsible travellers are those who listen more than they consume.
Quick Fire Questions
Q11) Morning person or sunset chaser? Which do you prefer in Belitung and why?
Sunset chaser. Belitung’s golden light reflecting off the granite rocks is pure magic – it reminds me every day why we protect this place.
Q12) If you had one free day to enjoy Tanjung Kelayang Reserve as a guest, what would you do?
I’d start with sunrise kayaking, breakfast by the beach, then hike through the forest to the lookout point. I’d end the day barefoot at Ekobeach, watching the sky turn crimson.
Q13) Favourite local snack or dish that every guest should try whilst visiting Belitung?
Definitely Mie Belitung – a sweet, savoury noodle dish with shrimp broth and potato topping. It tastes like the island: warm, humble and full of surprises.
Q14) Which animal in the reserve best matches your personality and why?
The hornbill. It’s curious, protective of its environment, and often seen leading its flock – just as I try to do with our team.
Q15) If you could describe Tanjung Kelayang Reserve in 3 words, what would they be?
Serene. Mindful. Transformative.
With leaders like Pak Daniel at the helm, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is proving that travel and conservation can go hand-in-hand, creating meaningful and memorable experiences along the way.
Make sure to add Belitung to your list, for an island escape that redefines paradise with purpose!
