"The local government is focusing its attention on bureaucratic and political matters only."Kupang (ANTARA News) - The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) provincial government should have done more to develop the tourism sector, which offers a promising potential for the welfare of 4.6 million people residing in the province, said local tourism businessman Victor Bungtilu Laiskodat here on Monday.
"Of all the sectors in NTT, only tourism offers a promising future for the welfare of the local community if it is managed properly, but the provincial government has yet to care for it," Victor remarked.
According to the former House member from the Golkar Party faction, the East Nusa Tenggara government, so far, has no vision to develop the promising tourism sector.
"The local government is focusing its attention on bureaucratic and political matters only, and fails to think of other, greater opportunities for the welfare of the local people," he continued.
According to Victor, although the province is well-known all over the world for its tourist attractions, the government has yet to manage them seriously.
He added that the government should begin to realize the importance of tourism for the province and develop it properly to ensure the welfare of the local community.
He explained that even though almost all the districts in East Nusa Tenggara have a wealth of beautiful tourist attractions, the local government does not manage them properly.
Victor noted that the province has more than 250 tourist attractions, comprising natural and cultural sites, which can potentially increase local prosperity.
The province is also known for its Komodo Island, home to "Varanus komodoensis" - ancient giant lizards that are still living - in addition to scenic hills and the tree-colored lake of Kelimutu.
In light of this, Victor added that the next leader of the province should pay more attention to developing tourism.
(Uu.O001/INE/KR-BSR)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
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