TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Wishnutama Kusubandio and his deputy, Angela Tanoesoedibjo, surveyed the development of Indonesia’s super-priority destinations of Mandalika, West Nusa Tenggara (NTT); and Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara (NTB).

As they arrived in Labuan Bajo, the pair also monitored the infrastructure development and looked into the potential use of local human resources to better differentiate the two tourist attractions.

“This aligns with the future tourism trend, which will champion ecotourism that shifts from tourism on quantity to quality. Issues regarding infrastructure, garbage, water, carrying capacity, and the use of local human resources, must be taken seriously,” said Wishnutama.

During his work visit, Wishnutama had the chance to walk the Padar Island track to witness the Komodo’s natural habitat on Rinca Island and, of course, the Komodo Island.

“The komodos are truly a strong attraction for global tourists. But we must package this and control the tourists arriving here to sustain Komodo’s ecosystem,” he said. "We hope the locals will be involved and feel the positive effect of development,” Wishnutama added.

LUDHY CAHYANA