"The ASEAN Summit will not merely be a summit in Labuan Bajo for the delegates but it should also bring positive impact to improve the people's economy," Uno stated after visiting the SME's Hub at the Labuan Bajo Waterfront City here, Tuesday (May 9) evening.
SME's Hub, organized through a collaboration between the state-owned enterprises ministry and other ministries, is the side event of the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo.
During his visit, the minister conversed with entrepreneurs showcasing their products at the exhibition for small and medium enterprises. He also inquired from the entrepreneurs about the origin of their products.
The minister emphasized that Labuan Bajo's residents were enthusiastic in welcoming the ASEAN Summit in their region.
Making Labuan Bajo the host of the ASEAN Summit is a strategic step to ensure the region is ready to be a super-priority and first-class tourism destination, he stressed.
Meanwhile, conveying suggestions and inputs from tourists visiting the region, Uno said that the infrastructure developed in Labuan Bajo should be maintained properly.
He also highlighted the need to improve waste management, as more tourists will visit Labuan Bajo in the future, and more waste will be produced.
The minister expressed optimism that all stakeholders would continue to maintain Labuan Bajo as a scenic and outstanding tourism destination.
"As this is a beautiful tourism destination, with friendly people and outstanding culture, let us develop Labuan Bajo as part of (our mission) to create 4.4 million new jobs by 2024," Uno stated.
Indonesia, the ASEAN chair for 2023, is hosting the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo on May 9-11, 2023.
Under its presidency, organized under the "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth" theme, Indonesia is seeking to enhance the capacity of the ASEAN institution to face future challenges.
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Translator: Fransiska MN, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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