Mataram, W Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - The government has allotted Rp3.7 trillion (US$259 million) in grants for development of the tourism sector in West Nusa Tenggara Province, Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno stated.

"The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy will always increase its attention, particularly to the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (KEK) (in West Nusa Tenggara) through tourism grants worth Rp3.7 trillion," Uno noted in a written statement released on Friday.

In addition to the KEK Mandalika, the ministry will strive to provide tourism grants for development of the Rinjani Geopark as a top tourist destination in Lombok District, West Nusa Tenggara.

The minister commended the development of tourism in East Lombok that integrated nature, culture, and creative economy by empowering women in each aspect of economic development.

"In fact, I am very interested in the concept of innovation-,adaptation-, and collaboration-based tourism development aimed at creating quality and sustainable tourism," Uno remarked during a visit to the Sembalun tourist destination in East Lombok District as part of his two-day working visit to West Nusa Tenggara.

Hence, the minister is optimistic that the World Superbike and MotoGP to be organized in Mandalika will have a huge multiplier effect on tourism operators.

"For instance, handicrafts, processed foods, etc. here must become an integral part of the large event," he stated.

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Translator: Nur Imansyah/Suharto
Editor: Sri Haryati
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