Once again, we are open to tourists from anywhere.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) is upbeat that foreign tourists will again flock Bunaken Island, North Sulawesi Province, after the government improved facilities on the island known for its profuse marine biodiversity.

"We hope that foreign tourists would swarm again to enter Manado City, North Sulawesi Province, especially to Bunaken. We are opening it to tourists from all countries, including those from China," the head of state remarked while visiting the Bunaken Tourism Area on Friday.

Jokowi noted that the government had improved facilities at the tourism destination, such as by providing several homestays.

"We have revitalized it, (and) at least the appearance (of the tourism area) has become better. Homestays for tourists have also been readied. There are 50 houses (homestays) that have been built by the government for the people (tourists)," the president remarked.

He expected that in early February of 2023, several foreign tourists would visit the Bunaken Tourism Area.

Nonetheless, he emphasized the importance of implementing strict health protocols to prevent any health risks from occurring.

"Once again, we are open to tourists from anywhere. We see that there will be many (tourists) from China. Thus, the most important (aspect) is maintaining the implementation of health protocols," he remarked.

Jokowi visited Bunaken Island on the third day of his working visit to North Sulawesi Province.

He departed from Mega Mas Pier, Manado City, North Sulawesi Province, to reach the tourism destination.

Arriving at the Bunaken Island Pier, he immediately reviewed the Bunaken Tourism Area as well as the homestay in the area.

During the trip, the president was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Minister Basuki Hadimuljono, Governor of North Sulawesi Olly Dondokambey, Commander of the XIII/Merdeka Regional Military Command Major General Alfret Denny Djoike Tuejeh, Chief of the North Sulawesi Regional Police Inspector General Setyo Budiyanto, and Mayor of Manado Andrei Angow.

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Translator: Indra Pribadi, Uyu Liman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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