Nestled in Indonesia's Sulawesi region, Wakatobi National Park emerges as a beacon of marine conservation and natural splendor as Asia-Pacific economies prepare for the 2025 APEC Leaders' Meeting. Established in 2002, this underwater paradise hosts over 750 coral species and 942 fish species – a living testament to the region's ecological wealth.
Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012, Wakatobi's turquoise waters conceal thriving ecosystems where spinner dolphins breach and ancient coral gardens flourish. The park's inclusion on Indonesia's 10,000 rupiah banknote underscores its national significance, while its sustainable tourism model offers lessons for balancing economic growth with environmental protection.
As South Korea prepares to host APEC members in 2025, Wakatobi stands as a symbol of cross-border ecological stewardship. Conservationists credit community-led initiatives for preserving 1.4 million hectares of marine habitat, creating blueprints for regional cooperation in biodiversity protection.
Dive operators report growing interest from international travelers, particularly after pandemic restrictions eased. "Wakatobi shows how environmental protection can drive economic opportunity," says local marine biologist Anwar Rachman. "Our challenge is maintaining this balance as global attention grows."
