Ecological disparities of swiftlets in coastal areas and cities and management of swiftlet nests in supporting export activities. Case Study: Bangka-Belitung Province, Indonesia

Abstract

Swiftlet’s nests have become a part of Indonesia’s superior export commodity. Indonesia is the largest swiftlet nest-producing and exporting country in the world, contributing 85% of the global demand. Bangka Belitung Province region produces good quality swiftlet nests. This research was used to analyze various factors driving the disparities in production and quality of swiftlet nests between coastal and city areas and to alayze the management of swiftlet nests in supporting export activities. This research is a case study in Bangka Belitung Province. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method and a comparative case study. The results showed that the factors causing disparities in nest production and yields between coastal and urban areas were geographical location, agro-climate, building feasibility, building structure, food vegetation, and swiftlet-calling techniques. Export management is carried out by fulfilling export requirements, grading, back-up marketing, waste management, and drawing up regional regulations. Therefore, a synergy is needed between the central government, local governments, breeders, the Agricultural Quarantine Center, and exporting companies to monitor and maintain the quality and quantity of swiftlet nests so that they become a source of regional income for the Bangka Belitung Province and national income.