Politicians Rally Around Komodo Tourism Drive

Jakarta Globe, Robertus Wardi, September 12, 2013

This file photo taken on December 3, 2010 shows Komodo dragons, the
 largest lizards in the world, on Rinca island part of the protected area
of Komodo National Park. (AFP Photo/Romeo Gacad)

The inclusion of the East Nusa Tenggara island of Komodo in the list of the “New 7 Wonders of Nature” in 2011, has seen increasing numbers of domestic and foreign visitors flock to Labuan Bajo, Flores, the sole entry point to the island, but tourism development remains slow.

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla said he hoped the island’s popularity would see a multiplier effect that could encourage the government to build better infrastructure in the area.

“We are all doing our best in turning Bali, Lombok as well as the Komodo village into good tourism destinations. The first things that are needed for tourism are discipline and hygiene,” he said.

Kalla added that locals needed to be helped to improve their language skills, both English and Indonesian, as well as their professionalism and hospitality in welcoming guests.

“The biggest challenge for a tourist area is the change of lifestyle from a more closed community to a more open one.”

In an effort to further boost Komodo’s tourism industry, the Trade Ministry is exhibiting local products during the Sail Komodo yachting event, which will be attended by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Saturday.

“The exhibition will become an effective promotional event to introduce various local products to international buyers and investors attending the Sail Komodo event,” the Trade Ministry’s Pradnyawati said.

She said the natural riches of East Nusa Tenggara remained far from being optimally developed and therefore made little contribution to the lives of local residents.

Products in the exhibition include textiles, food, hunting accessories as well as locally made jewelry and fashion accessories.

“The world has now turned its eyes on Sail Komodo 2013. It is hoped that many would be able to see [Komodo’s] natural potential and the variety of products here in Indonesia,” she added.