Jakarta Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelagic nation, boasts an astounding number of islands, both large and small. As of 2024, the Southeast Asian country comprises more than 17,000 islands, making it one of the most geographically diverse countries on the planet.
Officially classified as an archipelago due to the sheer number of islands, Indonesia’s island count has fluctuated over the years. According to the country’s 1996 Law No. 6 on Indonesian Waters, the nation is said to consist of 17,508 islands. However, data from Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in 2023 recorded a slightly lower figure, reporting that the country encompasses 17,001 islands.
This discrepancy arises due to constant changes in the island count. Small islands often emerge or disappear due to natural phenomena such as rising sea levels or erosion, meaning the total number of islands is never static. “There are always updates every year, with new islands being detected while others are lost due to waves or submersion,” said a BPS spokesperson.
Despite the vast number of islands, only around 30%-35% are inhabited, leaving the majority of Indonesia’s islands uninhabited and largely undeveloped. Among the inhabited islands are five major landmasses that form the core of the country: Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan (Borneo), Sulawesi, and Papua. These larger islands are home to the bulk of Indonesia’s population, which exceeds 270 million people.
Indonesia’s Islands by Province
Indonesia’s islands are spread across 34 provinces, with some provinces boasting thousands of islands within their borders. West Papua province has the highest number of islands, with 4,520 recorded. Following closely behind is the Riau Islands province, home to 2,028 islands, and Central Sulawesi, which comprises 1,572 islands.
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On the opposite end of the spectrum, Bengkulu is Indonesia’s province with the fewest islands, containing just nine. Other provinces with low island counts include Jambi, with 14 islands, and South Sumatra, with 24.
Tourist Destinations Among Indonesia’s Islands
While many of Indonesia’s islands remain untouched, some have gained international fame as premier travel destinations. Bali, the crown jewel of Indonesian tourism, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and spiritual significance. Similarly, Lombok and the Gili Islands attract visitors seeking natural beauty and adventure. Aside from these two there are still many of island in Indonesia offering beauty to be explored.
Indonesia remarkable collection and outstanding number of islands, both big and small, offers endless opportunities for exploration. Whether inhabited or deserted, they form a central part of the country’s identity and contribute to its natural and cultural richness. As the world continues to change, so too will the archipelago’s evolving coastline, but Indonesia’s status as a global archipelago powerhouse remains undisputed.
(Raidi/Agung)
