During this period of development, Madura's contribution towards the
national economy is growing and diversifying. Besides the traditional
farming sector, natural resources such as oil and natural gas are
beginning to be exploited. No less tourism. With an infrastructure
now deemed capable of handling numbers of visitors, it can be expected
that the flow of tourists into Madura should increase rapidly in the
near future
If, in the past, people tended to avoid Madura as a place to visit,
then it was because of a lack of facilities. But now conditions are
different and good roads run the whole away along the length of the
island. Reasonable accommodation, too, can be found in all the major
towns. In short, Madura is prepared for tourism and is now looking
towards improving super structural aspects, in the form of hotels,
restaurants, terminals, shopping centres etc.
Furthermore, East Java's Regional Government is currently planning
the construction of a bridge which will connect Tanjung Perak with
Kamal. Barring obstacles the SURAMADU bridge project should be underway
in the near future. This ambitious task stirs the imagination when
one considers standing at the half way point and enjoying the panorama,
as well as watching the numerous sea-going vessels which regularly
make their way across the straits. The bridge will, without a doubt,
prove to be a major tourist attraction and a photographer's dream.
Though still receiving comparatively few foreign visitors, the island
of Madura is already well known for its bull races, the bold designs
and colours of its batik textiles, its sate (cooked meat on skewers)
and veto (soup), as well as an enviable number of unspoiled beaches.
For plant enthusiasts, the Bonsai Casuarina ( cemara udang ) is unique
to Madura. Until now we have only mentioned Madura's main island.
In addition, there is a string of around 66 more small islands running
off to the east of Sumenep and comprising a part of that administrative
district.
These islands include the Kangean Group, which lie due north of the
island of Bali. Planning and development could turn this beautiful
mini-archipelago into an incomparable marine resort, equipped with
all facilities, including opportunities for all kinds of water sports
and marine activities. |
