The delegates will be welcomed with traditional dances when they arrive in Labuan Bajo.
Kupang, E Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - Deputy Governor of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Josef Nae Soi has said that his administration is preparing locally-made bamboo bicycles as souvenirs for delegates participating in the 42nd ASEAN Summit.

The souvenirs reflect his administration’s support for the implementation of the international event, which is scheduled to take place in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai District, NTT Province, on May 9–11, 2023, he informed here on Wednesday.

They also aim to promote the local innovative product and the abundant potential of bamboo in the province, he continued.

The deputy governor informed that in addition to the bicycles, the local government has also prepared Komodo dragon-themed souvenirs and souvenir photos as gifts for the delegates.

Furthermore, traditional clothes made from woven fabrics will also be given as special gifts to the heads of state of ASEAN member countries, he added.

The clothes have been prepared by the NTT Provincial Regional National Crafts Council (Dekranasda), he said.

"The delegates will be welcomed with traditional dances when they arrive in Labuan Bajo," Soi informed.

He said that the NTT provincial government, as the host of the summit, will play a major role in supporting the smooth and successful implementation of the international event, including helping to achieve the substance of the meetings.

The summit would be attended by the heads of state of ASEAN countries. The number of delegates accompanying the heads of state is estimated to reach 550.

Soi said that his administration will allow tourists to visit Labuan Bajo while the summit is in progress.

“Visitors are still welcome to come to Labuan Bajo since all tourism destinations will be open (during the summit) as usual,” he added.

However, there would be special arrangements in areas that will serve as venues for the summit or that will be visited by any of the heads of state, Soi informed.

“There will be very limited, limited, and open areas (for tourists), which are usually implemented when a summit takes place,” he added.

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Translator: Aloysius Lewokeda, Uyu Liman
Editor: Sri Haryati
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