"Let's Go Healing to the Beach!"
The phrase "healing" has recently become familiar to our ears. Although the meaning of the frequently used phrase has shifted over time. From self-healing, it has transformed into tourism. Nevertheless, going for a "healing" trip to the beach is indeed an excellent choice to unwind after dealing with a pile of work. Especially after the global Covid-19 pandemic, which has forced many people to limit their mobility. It is no wonder that the demand for vacations has become an undeniable necessity for most people.
Moreover, the beaches and seas in the Nusantara archipelago offer breathtaking panoramas. The fine white sand and crystal-clear seawater are sure to indulge anyone seeking healing. Various activities such as snorkeling or diving to witness the underwater beauty are also incredibly enticing. Observing thousands of beautiful fish swimming freely or the magical expanse of coral reefs.
The richness contained in the Indonesian seas is beyond doubt. Approximately 8,500 fish species, 555 seaweed species, and over 950 coral reef biota live within these waters. Out of all the coral reef species in the world, 76% of them reside in Indonesian waters. As for coral fish species worldwide, 37% are found in the waters stretching from Sumatra to Papua. The Indonesian seas cover an area of no less than 5.8 million square kilometers.
It is no wonder that the Indonesian waters are referred to as the coral triangle. In this region of the western Pacific Ocean, the biodiversity it contains is abundant. Not to mention the vast array of islands in the Nusantara archipelago, with approximately 17,000 islands, including ten major ones. No wonder the Indonesian government has declared Nusantara as the world's maritime axis.
According to legend, our ancestors were sailors. The cultural richness that has developed for thousands of years across the Indonesian archipelago originates from the civilization that existed in the coastal and maritime regions. Throughout history, the sea has been the main source of livelihood for communities in the Nusantara region.
The fish found in the Indonesian seas are more than sufficient as a high-protein food source. Their economic value is also remarkable. Some high-value commercial fish species include tuna, skipjack tuna, snapper, and mackerel. Not to mention shrimp, lobster, crab, shellfish, and others.
This abundant wealth can be witnessed with the naked eye. Observe the fishing harbors, both large-scale and small-scale, found across the country. The fishermen's catches are never empty. They are available every day. The estimated annual fish catch from the Indonesian seas is around 12.54 million tons.
A documentary film produced by Rekam Nusantara titled "Nusantara and Its Seas" reveals these aspects. With a duration of eight minutes and 39 seconds, this film successfully showcases the beauty of the Indonesian waters, which pleases the visual senses. It arouses a strong desire to embark on a healing journey to various marine areas in the Nusantara region.
However, behind its visually enchanting beauty, the film also captures a series of threats faced by the Indonesian waters. The abundant marine ecosystem is not free from dangers. The main factor is none other than human greed. Whether consciously or unconsciously, the behavior we exhibit today threatens the grandeur and beauty of the Indonesian marine ecosystem.
Engaging in a healing journey while enjoying the charm of the Indonesian seas is permissible. However, preserving the sustainability of the marine ecosystem is an absolute must. While planning healing agendas to various beaches and seas in the Nusantara region, watching this documentary film can be an interesting option. It can help alleviate the longing for long-awaited vacation activities disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The film can be viewed on the Rekam Nusantara YouTube channel.