“This is our shared responsibility to ensure that our destinations are safe, comfortable, and enjoyable,” said Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa in a statement released Thursday.
She emphasized that safety and comfort are essential for providing tourists with a positive experience, while also ensuring that tourism delivers tangible benefits to local communities.
Speaking during a virtual meeting with tourism stakeholders in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Puspa addressed the growing issue of extortion in local tourist areas amid rapid tourism development.
She noted that the central government supports regional administrations and law enforcement agencies in providing guidance and taking firm action against offenders.
“Our approach should prioritize prevention and education, especially for children and local communities,” Puspa stated.
She also stressed the importance of involving the community in all aspects of the tourism ecosystem through training, coaching, and capacity building.
Puspa urged tourists wishing to provide educational assistance to do so through official village institutions, community groups, or local governments, rather than directly to individuals, especially children.
“This must be a turning point for tourism in Sumba and NTT. We must build quality, inclusive tourism by strengthening local human resources through digital training, destination marketing, and community-based management,” she said.
On the same occasion, Southwest Sumba District Head Ratu Ngadu Bonu Wulla expressed her commitment to eradicating extortion in the region.
The meeting concluded with a decision to install information boards at the entrance and within the Ratenggaro Traditional Village. These boards will list official tourism activity fees, including entrance, horse-riding, photography, and other services, as set out in village regulations.
The issue of extortion came to light after a content creator reported experiencing illegal levies in the district some time ago.
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Translator: Hreeloita Dharma S, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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