"The WSBK is not just a one-off exercise, but it will be carried out continuously. The championship is an effective tool to promote tourism in the Mandalika area," the ministry's deputy of tourism and creative economy coordination, Odo R.M Manuhutu, said during an online discussion on Tuesday.
The Pertamina Mandalika Circuit will create a number of multiplier effects, both direct and indirect, most importantly in job creation, he added.
The key factor in Mandalika development is to bring benefit to the surrounding community and ensure micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) earn more income through the tourist destination, he said.
"Thank you to NTB Governor and other stakeholders who have facilitated more than 200 MSMEs participating in the event. Hopefully, these MSMEs will be able to accommodate the needs of WSBK's spectators," he added.
He also thanked the community and local government for their support for the 2021 WSBK.
Related news: Hope Mandalika Circuit proves new economic pulse for NTB: Widodo
President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) inaugurated the Mandalika International Circuit in Central Lombok district, NTB on November 12 this year.
At the inauguration, the President noted that the 4.3-kilometer Mandalika Circuit will host the World Superbike (WSBK) event on November 19–21, 2021 and MotoGP in March 2022.
He said he hopes the racing circuit will bring benefit and recover the economy in NTB, which was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The President also said he believes that international sports events such as World Superbike and MotoGP will have a significant impact on economic growth in the region.
He also inaugurated the 17.3-km-long and 50-m wide Bypass Road that connected Lombok International Airport (BIL) to Mandalika.
Related news: Locals enthused about watching first race at Mandalika Circuit
Related news: AirNav Indonesia commits to support World Superbike race
Translator: Aji Cakti, Resinta S
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
