TEMPO.CO, Jepara - Jepara, East Java, has started to promote coral reef tourism after its fishermen successfully carried out coral reef transplants.

“We have started to develop new tourist destinations located in the Panjang Island, Jepara, as coral reef transplants begin to attract various fish,” said Mustain, the chairman of the local monitoring community (Pokmaswas).

So far, the environmental community groups have shown their interest on visiting the destination. They can enjoy new destinations and snorkel in the area.

He expects that the community groups will help promote the new attraction, adding that the coral reefs are home to clown fish, kete-kete and ornamental fish.

As for snorkeling, all equipment are readily available and tourists will be guided by fishermen. “Tourist guides for snorkeling have already secured certificates making them qualified for snorkeling,” he said.

The area also offers 2.5 to 5 meter deep underwater tourist attractions. Tourists can also fish in the area.

“We also provide special cameras to take underwater pictures so that tourists will not have to worry about missing special moments,” he said.

Tourists are also being educated on the importance of conserving coral reefs.

He said that coral reefs transplants will continue in cooperation with other parties. The transplants of dozens of units of coral reefs in Jepara have been carried out since 2012.

ANTARA