"The weather was favorable, and the location was near an open area accessible by helicopter, allowing for a quick evacuation," said Hariyanto, the ministry's Deputy for Destination Development and Infrastructure, on Friday.
According to the Mount Rinjani National Park Office (BTNGR), after receiving the report on Wednesday at 11:25 a.m. local time, a joint team of rescuers and volunteers was immediately mobilized.
At 4:58 p.m., a helicopter successfully airlifted the climber and transported him to BIMC Hospital in Kuta, Bali. Initial medical assessments indicated fractures in the thigh and arm, as well as bleeding near the eye. The climber is currently receiving further treatment.
"The Ministry of Tourism appreciates the swift response from all parties involved in the cross-sector collaboration to handle this incident," Hariyanto said, adding that recurring accidents on Mount Rinjani highlight the need for greater attention to safety.
"Safety is not just an added value — it's a fundamental requirement in all tourism activities. Without proper safety assurance, our tourism potential cannot grow sustainably," he stressed.
Hariyanto noted that the ministry has launched a flagship program to strengthen safety standards at tourist destinations, provide education and outreach to tourists and businesses, and improve coordination across sectors in emergency response.
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Translator: Hreeloita Dharma S, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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