"They have expressed their support to the government's policy on requesting tourists' contribution for sustainable conservation and tourism," Head of the NTT tourism and creative economy office, Zeth Sony Libing, stated here on Wednesday.
Members of the associations initially rejected the policy and were on strike on Monday and Tuesday.
The NTT government invited them for a dialog, and they finally agreed to support the policy and develop tourism in Labuan Bajo.
"The provincial government of NTT really lauds and respects the associations of tourism actors, who were willing to hold a dialogue and come to a good agreement," he affirmed.
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PT Flobamor, as an NTT government-owned enterprise (BUMD), has been appointed to manage tourism services on Komodo Island, Padar Island, and the surrounding waters.
"Our job is to control the work of PT Flobamor, so that it can work well in accordance with the working agreement between PT Flobamor and BTNK (Komodo National Park Office)," he remarked.
Speaking in connection with the information on 10 thousand tourists, who had canceled their visit to Labuan Bajo, Libing said he would check the report.
Libing ensured that guests, who had purchased tour packages until July 29, 2022, received dispensation, so they could enjoy normal prices until December 31, 2022.
The official also drew attention to other tourist attractions in West Manggarai, such as the Batu Cermin Cave, Rangko Cave, and tourism villages.
Rafael Todowela, chairman of the West Manggarai Tourism Rescue Forum (FORMAPP) that groups several tour operators' and travel agents' associations, read out the statement supporting the government's policy on Komodo Island's entry fee.
"We, the associations of tourism actors, who are members of the West Manggarai FORMAPP, support the government's policy of charging Rp3.75 million per person per year," he said.
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Translator: Fransiska MN, Fardah
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
