TIMES HONGKONG, MADURA – Tucked away off the eastern edge of Madura, Gili Labak is one of those rare places that still feels untouched by time. Reaching it requires patience, a slow journey across the water, and a willingness to let the noise of everyday life fade behind you.

What awaits is not just a beach or a destination, but a shift in rhythm, an invitation to breathe differently, listen more closely, and let the sea set the pace. This small island, with its quiet charm and clear waters, draws you in long before your feet ever touch its sand.

The journey begins at Kalianget Harbor, where a wooden boat moves slowly across the sea for about two hours. Waves rise gently, making your head feel light, as if your body is asked to adjust to the ocean’s rhythm.

First Impressions: Calm Waters and Soft Sands

Upon reaching the shore, the first thing you notice is the water. It's clear as glass, so transparent that the sand beneath it appears sharp and close. The sand is soft and pale, and the silence is comforting, not empty.

During midday, the sea rests almost without waves; calm like a lake, with only the whisper of wind and faint voices of fishermen in the distance.

Life Intertwined with the Sea

Gili Labak is not uninhabited. A few families live there, maintaining a simple life closely tied to the ocean. A local guide shared that they often travel back and forth by boat to other islands just to buy daily necessities.

For them, the sea is not merely a view but a source of life that must remain balanced. The coral reefs surrounding the island are cared for with quiet intention, because if the reefs are damaged, the island will suffer as well.

Underwater Wonders and Sunrise Moments

Snorkeling is one of the best ways to experience Gili Labak’s beauty. Near the jetty, colorful coral reefs grow vibrantly beneath the surface. Small fish swim like flickers of light in the clear water, and clownfish hide among anemones.

Tiny fish brushing your fingertips creates a small, unforgettable connection. Sunrise on the island is equally magical—sitting on the sand as the sky shifts from deep blue to soft orange feels like a quiet greeting from nature.

A Fragile Paradise Worth Protecting

A trip to Gili Labak is relatively affordable, around Rp85,000 for a one-day trip including the boat and snorkeling equipment, though meals are not included. Yet the true value lies in the awareness it demands of visitors.

The island is fragile, easily harmed by careless tourism. Gili Labak reminds us that beauty is not only to be enjoyed but also protected. Leaving the island, the gentle sound of waves feels like a soft farewell, along with a lesson in slowing down, paying attention, and safeguarding the wonders of nature. (*)