Banda Aceh (ANTARA) - A total of 17,922 people visited the westernmost city of Indonesia, Sabang, Aceh Province, during the 2024 Eid al-Fitr holiday, according to the city's government.

According to the municipal government's website, Sabang City encompasses the five main islands of Weh, Klah, Rubiah, Seulako, and Rondo. Weh Island is the largest and the only inhabited island among them.

Acting Mayor of Sabang, Reza Fahlevi, on Monday, expressed hope that the huge number of tourists visiting the city would positively affect the economy of local residents and promote Weh Island to a broader population.

"I would like to wish a happy holiday to tourists. Please, enjoy the natural beauty, culture, and history of the city of Sabang while preserving the environment by not littering," he remarked.

Head of the Sabang Transportation Office, Husaini, explained that the number was based on data of arrivals in the city during the April 1-13 period.

Related news: Visitors throng mass grave of tsunami victims in Aceh on Eid

He remarked that the number of people traveling from and to Sabang using boats had started increasing since D-7 of Eid and peaked on D+4.

"Heavy flow (of travelers) was still apparent on Saturday (April 13). In fact, we are still witnessing the flow today," he remarked.

On April 1-13, 2024, the number of people arriving in Sabang hit 17,922, while the number of travelers departing the city for Ulee Lheue in Banda Aceh City was pegged at 16,511.

During the period, he remarked that a total of 34,433 people traveled between the two cities using sea transport while bringing 6,951 motorbikes and 2,043 cars.

"Until today, plenty of tourists are still arriving in Sabang. They are making the most of the two remaining Eid days off and return flow," he pointed out.

Related news: Eid return flow - Sumatra-Java port crossing trips increased to 146

Translator: Khalis S, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Copyright © ANTARA 2024