"Advancing the tourism sector is not only about (highlighting) the beauty of nature, infrastructure, culture, and marketing issues, but we need to also establish a sense of security for every visitor. Especially amid this COVID-19 pandemic, a sense of security has become an important part of advancing tourism," he said in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, Thursday.
Wishnutama made the remarks while speaking about the health and safety protocols simulation for which Labuan Bajo was the first location to be selected.
The minister further said that Labuan Bajo was selected for the simulation as it has high strategic value. Labuan Bajo is projected to host the G20 Summit and the ASEAN Summit in 2023.
For that reason, he continued, there should be an alignment of media perspective in terms of the security and safety measures format provided for visitors.
"For the first time, we have carried out preparations, or health and safety protocols standard operational procedures (SOP), together with the relevant ministries and agencies," Wishnutama noted.
"This activity would not have been possible without the support of all parties. And I think this is an important thing to get Indonesia's tourism to a far better quality,” he added.
He further emphasized that tourism would not be considered good quality if it does not provide a sense of security to visitors.
"This is our first attempt and the beginning that we have witnessed together. We will do the same in other tourism destinations in the country," he concluded. (INE)
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EDITED BY INE
Translator: Bernadus Tokan/Aria Cindyara
Editor: Suharto
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