Anambas Islands | ||
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Islands and Regency | ||
Anambas Islands seen from far.
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Anambas location in the South China Sea. |
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Country | Indonesia | |
Province | Riau Islands | |
Capital | Terempa | |
Area | ||
• Total | 637.10 km2 (245.99 sq mi) | |
Population (2010) | ||
• Total | 37,493 | |
• Density | 59/km2 (150/sq mi) | |
Time zone | WIB (UTC+7) |
Anambas archipelago (Indonesian: Kepulauan Anambas) is a small archipelago of Indonesia, located 150 nautical miles northeast of Batam Island in the South China Sea between the Malaysian mainland to the west and the island of Borneo to the east. Geographically part of the Tudjuh Archipelago, it is administratively a regency within the Riau Islands Province.
The Anambas archipelago contains a large reserve of natural gas that is exported to countries such as Singapore and Malaysia. The island of Matak is the main base for oil exploration.
Other islands are Siantan (Terempa), Mubur, Jemaja and Kiabu (Airabu).
According to CNN, the Anambas Islands are one of Southeast Asia's most spectacular coastal spots, with good snorkelling and diving spots. One of the Anambas islands with good tourism potential in particular is Pulau Bawah [1]. Pulau Bawah, located about 150 nautical miles northeast of Singapore, is actually a cluster of islets that collectively surround three lagoons, each of which suitable for snorkelling, scubadiving and beach activities.
The shipwrecked vessels Seven Skies and Igara attract a variety of indigenous marine life and offer diving opportunities.
Whilst the majority of the population generates their income from fishing and fishing-related industries, tourism has been gaining traction. Hostel and hotel rooms are available in Jemaja and Tarempa, along with some homestay locations.
The Regency is divided into seven districts (kecamatan) - tabulated below with their 2010 Census population:
Coordinates: 3°6′N 105°40′E / 3.100°N 105.667°E