Natuna, Batamnews - Natuna Regency, located in the Riau Islands Province, has long captured the attention of tourists and nature enthusiasts alike. Boasting breathtaking natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage, Natuna offers an unforgettable experience. Liputan6.com has compiled a glimpse of the wonders that Natuna has to offer.

Natuna is part of the Pulau Tujuh cluster and lies on the international shipping route to and from Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, and Japan. Its vast expanse covers an area of 141,901.20 square kilometers, with the majority being water covering 139,892.16 square kilometers, and 2,009.04 square kilometers of land. As of 2020, the population of Natuna Regency reached 81,495, with Bunguran Timur Subdistrict being the most populous, boasting 27,806 residents.

Here are some fascinating facts about Natuna:

1. Tanjung Senubing: A Captivating Geosite Tanjung Senubing, located in Bunguran Timur, on the eastern coast of Ranai, is a geosite that showcases untouched natural beauty. The peninsula is adorned with vast granite formations. From Tanjung Senubing, visitors can enjoy mesmerizing views of the North Natuna Sea and Pulau Senua. The granite rocks are of various sizes, and this area is also home to the endemic Natuna leaf monkey (Presbytis natunae) locally known as Kekah.

2. Pulau Burung: An Avian Paradise Pulau Burung, situated in Setumuk Village, Pulau Tiga Subdistrict, is a haven for migratory birds, particularly seagulls. Accessible by a 1-1.5 hour boat ride from Ranai, the island is believed to be the perfect nesting ground for seagulls and other avian species. As dawn breaks, flocks of birds fill the sky, and as the day progresses, they venture out to seek food. Despite being a small island in the middle of the sea, Pulau Burung leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

3. The Almost Forgotten Tari Topeng Dance The Tari Topeng dance is a rare traditional dance that can only be found in Tanjung Village, Bunguran Timur Laut Subdistrict. The dance is on the verge of disappearing as it is known to few, even among the locals in the Riau Islands Province. Tari Topeng serves a medicinal purpose, believed to heal the sick. The dance involves five to six dancers performing hand movements, cloth-draped dance, and plate dance. Accompanied by five musicians playing limpung, gongs, and drums, Tari Topeng carries a captivating tale of its own.

4. Safeguarding the Month of Safar The month of Safar is the second month in the Islamic Hijri calendar. In Natuna's beliefs, this month is often associated with dangers and mishaps. To ward off potential disasters and misfortunes, the community carries out the tradition of Doa Selamat (a blessing prayer) at the beginning of Safar. The ceremony is often accompanied by a Safar bath, where special papers inscribed with Arabic letters are soaked in the bathing water. The writings are usually prepared by local religious figures.

5. Traditional Pangkak Gasing Games Natuna boasts the traditional Pangkak Gasing Natuna games. The game involves spinning tops made of sturdy wood, such as pelawan (Tristaniopsis merguensis Grift) and sentigi (Pemphis). The strings are made from specially treated wood skin, including melinjo (Gnetum gnemon Linn). The game is typically played by males of all ages. It involves two teams and consists of three rounds, namely betendin, pangkak gasing, and ber’ulet.

6. Savoring the Delightful Longlek Traditional Cake The Natuna region is renowned for its traditional delicacy, the longlek cake. Dating back to the 1960s, the cake offers a sweet and chewy texture. Longlek is made from sago, young coconut, and brown sugar, as flour and rice were scarce commodities in Natuna during that period. Traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, longlek is a culinary treasure reflecting Natuna's rich heritage.

Natuna's allure lies in its remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural wonders. With its unique and diverse offerings, Natuna promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for travelers and culture enthusiasts.