Jakarta, Jan 16 (ANTARA News) - Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan supports the plan to accelerate the development of the tourism and industrial sectors in Bintan, Riau Islands.

"Hence, Bintan can be twice as big as Singapore. Tourism is important, but the key is cleanliness. Bintan also has to work together on hygiene-related issues," Pandjaitan was quoted as saying in a written statement in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Pandjaitan undertook a visit to Lobam, Bintan Island, on Tuesday (Jan 15). He was welcomed by Bintan District Head Apri Sujadi, Police Chief of Bintan AKBP Boy Herlambang, CEO of Gallant Venture Frans Gunara, and the party of PT Bintan Aviation Investment.

He emphasized the vast potential of Bintan, as a tourist destination, following the 12 events that were implemented successfully.

According to Pandjaitan, this was an extraordinary achievement for development of the tourism sector in Bintan Island.

The former coordinating minister for politics and security also shed light on several important points of discussion related to the construction of ports and airports that can support tourism and industry.

"We have discussed several important points. Regarding the port, there are no problems. I said, everything is just right. Moreover, the licensing is easy, as long as we will take care of national interests," he explained.

Meanwhile, speaking in connection with the report on black waste on Bintan Island, Pandjaitan stressed that the government was paying attention to this.

"The monitoring process has begun using satellite assistance to see which vessels are the source of the problem and will be dealt with immediately," he stated.

District Head of Bintan Apri Sujadi said he will apply Pandjaitan`s recommendations regarding cleanliness in order to support the tourism sector, including minimizing the use of plastic.

"We, from the Regional Government, will immediately execute through the District Head`s Decree or the Governor`s Regulation," he concluded.

Reporting by Ade irma Junida

(E002/A/INE)

Reporter: Antara
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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