We need to keep our spirit and optimism.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Mass vaccination programs and creative economic developments in Lake Toba, North Sumatra, could accelerate economic recovery in the tourism area, according to Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno.

"These activities are the result of our joint work and quick actions to explore all areas of potential. We aim to develop Lake Toba to be a top-quality tourism destination in order to attract many tourists and drive recovery of the local economy by creating business opportunities for the people," Uno noted in his written statement received here on Saturday.

The statement was delivered during the virtual launch of a recycling-based craft workshop at Jetun Silangit Batak Christian Youth Village, Siborong-borong Sub-District, North Tapanuli District, North Sumatra Province.

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On the same occasion, the minister also attended the soft launch of Bobocabin Signature Toba -- a modern inn based on a camping concept -- which is located at the Nomadic Escape Caldera in Pardamean Sibisa Village, Ajibata Sub-district, Toba Samosir District, North Sumatra.

In addition, he virtually inaugurated the first phase of mass vaccination programs conducted by the Indonesian National Defense Forces.

Uno lauded all parties for their active support in facilitating the recovery of the creative tourism sector while handling the pandemic -- especially the Lake Toba Authority Management Agency (BPODT) -- that had undertaken various recovery activities.

"Let us unite against the pandemic. We need to keep our spirits and optimism high. Furthermore, please, always take care of your health by adhering to strict health protocols," he affirmed.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo had made the development of Lake Toba Lake a priority, as the tourism destination had been designated as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

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Translator: Aditya Ramadhan, Uyu Liman
Editor: Suharto
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