Tragic Drowning of Chinese Tourist at Komodo National Park Raises Safety Concerns

On June 18, 2025, a Chinese tourist tragically drowned while swimming at Long Beach in Indonesia’s Komodo National Park after ignoring safety advice to wear a life jacket. The victim, identified as Qiu Yan, 30, was part of a tour group exploring the scenic beauty of the national park, renowned for its pink sand beaches and the unique wildlife, including the famous Komodo dragons.

The incident occurred shortly after the group had set off from Nusantara Port for a three-day tour. According to a statement from West Manggarai police, Qiu Yan entered the water despite being cautioned by her tour guide, Anselmus Raden, to wear a life jacket. "We had advised her to wear it for safety, but she insisted on taking pictures first," Raden stated in comments reported by Indonesian news outlet Kompas.com.

Witnesses reported that after entering the water, Qiu Yan was seen struggling, prompting alarm among her fellow tourists. She was subsequently pulled from the sea unconscious around 9:30 AM local time. Despite immediate first aid efforts, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation administered by Raden, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Komodo Health Centre. The authorities indicated that the probable cause of death was asphyxiation due to significant water entering her lungs.

This incident has raised serious concerns regarding safety protocols within marine tourism activities at Komodo National Park. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts thousands of visitors each year, who come to experience its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. However, local authorities have reiterated the importance of adhering to safety measures, particularly the use of life jackets in marine environments.

Dr. Maria Setiawan, a marine safety expert at the University of Indonesia, emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in her statement. "Tourists must be educated on the potential dangers of marine activities, and tour operators should enforce safety protocols more diligently to prevent such tragedies in the future," she noted.

The tragic drowning of Qiu Yan highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing tourism and safety in popular natural sites. With increasing numbers of tourists flocking to the Komodo National Park, local authorities are under pressure to ensure that safety protocols are not just recommended but mandatory, especially in light of previous incidents involving water safety.

In response to the incident, the West Manggarai police have urged tour operators to conduct safety briefings before excursions and to ensure that all tourists understand the risks of swimming in open waters. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with marine activities and the critical importance of adhering to safety guidelines to protect visitors in Indonesia's stunning but potentially hazardous natural environments.