Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung announced an ambitious plan to create Indonesia’s first “Cat Island” in the capital’s Thousand Islands district. The island would turned into a heaven for stray cats and new destination for domestic and international tourists.
Governor Pramono floated the idea during a press briefing in March 2025, drawing inspiration from Japan’s famed cat islands that attract thousands of cat lovers each year.
“This concept isn’t new. Japan has done it, and it became a wildly popular tourist destination,” he said. “If we can bring this to life, it could generate new revenue for the Thousand Islands and attract more visitors.”
The proposed “Cat Island” will serve both as a feline sanctuary and a tourism site. The provincial government of Jakarta is working closely with the local administration of the Thousand Islands to identify a suitable island and develop a sustainable, animal-friendly tourism model.
Acting Regent of the Thousand Islands, Muhammad Fadjar Churniawan, confirmed that several potential locations have already been surveyed.
“Of the four islands we assessed, Onrust, Cipir, Rambut, and Tidung Kecil, the latter seems to be the most ideal,” said Fadjar, noting that Tidung Kecil’s size, isolation, and accessibility make it a top candidate.
Officials emphasize that the island will be professionally managed to ensure the health and well-being of the cats. The island will not just be a tourist site, but also a center for feline rehabilitation and care. A specialized cat hospital is also in the works as part of the island’s infrastructure, according to Pramono.
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Governor Pramono sees the project as more than a tourist attraction. He described it as a response to the growing community of cat lovers in Jakarta, as well as a humane solution for managing the city’s stray cat population.
“This will be a cat-friendly space, a hub for cat enthusiasts, and an economic driver for the region,” said Pramono, who vowed to push forward with the plan despite logistical challenges. “If we do this right, it can boost local income and give Jakarta a new kind of charm.”
If realized, the the Cat Island in Thousands Island district Jakarta would be a first of its kind in Indonesia, blending animal welfare with tourism.
(Raidi/Agung)
