However, the Riau Islands Tourism Office could not as yet confirm the number of tourists coming from Singapore that would initially visit Lagoi due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the office head, Buralimar, stated in Tanjungpinang on Monday,
"We have not received data from the Lagoi tourism area manager," he noted.
Buralimar noted that the first arrival of Singaporean tourists will be welcomed by Riau Islands Governor Ansar Ahmad himself, though it will be kept low-key to ensure the comfort of tourists.
Ahmad will also welcome tourists from Singapore that will arrive at the integrated international tourist zone in Nongsa, Batam, on February 23, 2022. Some 30 Singaporean tourists would arrive in Nongsa, though the figure could still increase, Buralimar noted.
"The welcome extended to the tourists will not be grandiose but simple, albeit still interesting. It is for ensuring the tourists' comfort," he affirmed.
Related news: Batam to welcome first Singaporean tourist ferry on Friday: Governor
He noted that all tourists from Singapore must undergo a PCR swab test on arrival at the Bentan Telani Lagoi Port and Nongsa Port. They will immediately ride a van to the hotel while awaiting the results of the PCR swab test.
"Health protocols are still enforced based on the existing regulations. We want to ensure that foreign tourists feel safe and comfortable. They can undergo quarantine while traveling in an integrated area," Buralimar expounded.
Tourists coming from Singapore on February 23 and February 25, 2022, will enter the travel bubble area in Lagoi and Nongsa. The travel bubble program conducted in the integrated tourism zone had been planned since a year ago.
"The central government has repeatedly reviewed the readiness of Lagoi and Nongsa in applying the travel bubble program while prioritizing health protocols," he added.
Related news: Batam ready to welcome foreign tourists: official
Translator: Nikolas P, Kenzu T
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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