Among Natuna’s sprawling expanse of teal ocean, lush hills, and breathtaking views both underwater and on land, you’ll find the equally charming people who inhabit the archipelago.

When Invest SEA’s partners at Praxis went to Natuna, they were greeted with the welcoming smiles and open arms that the humble people of the islands are known for. Our team also noted how supportive the local people are of renewed investment interest on the island, in sectors such as ecotourism, fishing and natural resources, and how these businesses could empower the people of the islands to show the world how much they have to offer.

Here are a few people our partners were lucky enough to talk to:

Mrs. Marni and Mrs. Juminem came to Natuna from nearby Sumatra, Indonesia in 1995 and 1996 respectively. Now, as Natuna residents and entrepreneurs, they are a staple at Ranai Market, selling vegetables to support their families. The produce they sell is sourced from Natuna, Java, Medan, Batam, and Pontianik. As for their futures as businesswomen in Natuna, Marni and Juminem hope that they can move into a more modern market set-up and that the island will be host to more guests so they can share their culture with ecotourists. Along with their market, they hope that tourist accommodations will also be modernized to be more comfortable during their stays.

In his journey to become a successful entrepreneur, Sandi has changed people’s perception of a café in Natuna. Typically, cafes are considered night bars on the islands, but when Sandi opened Sepertiga Malam Café, he had a different vision: he wanted his establishment to be a place that young people could gather, gain inspiration, and work. Sandi is passionate about fostering fellow youths on the island to be self-starters, and has even hosted events at the café to encourage more business-minded people in the community.

Meet Efendi, a fish trader in Natuna. Every morning Efendi is at Ranai market, waiting for the fishermen to bring in their catch of the day. He leaves only when all his fish are sold out. He sells various fish, including the sought-after mahan fish.

Efendi says that his finances have vastly improved since the world has begun to recover from pandemic. He hopes that the current upward trends of ecotourism on the island will bring about a modernized version of his beloved traditional market.

Fishing is one of the main industries supporting Natuna, and by selling fish, Efendi and his wife were able to send his child to study in the city of Yogyakarta. As for his hopes for the future of Natuna, he says he’d like the ticket plane tickets to be more readily available so more travelers would come to Natuna and enjoy its beauty.

Those who live in this paradise day-to-day are famous for their friendly nature and connection to the sea, which they make much of their livelihoods from. Who will you meet when you come to Natuna? Follow us on social media to hear more stories of these natives of Natuna.