TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Banyuwangi administration ensured its readiness to welcome tourists, especially domestic ones, amid the adaptation period to a new normal. The Regent Abdullah Azwar Anas said that his side had certified business actors in the tourism sector.

“Banyuwangi has certified tour guides, as well as restaurant and shop businesses,” said Anas in a statement on Sunday, August 23.

Business players who obtained the certificate had met and complied with the government’s health protocol standards based on the cleanliness, health, safety, and environmental sustainability or CHSE. Anas asserted that there would be sanctions for violators.

The sanctions could be a business closure for those proven to have violated them. Besides, Anas revealed that the local government had logged hotels, restaurants, food stalls, and homestays that have been equipped with the certification and published the data through the official website of the Banyuwangi Tourism Agency.

He hoped that tourist information in the Banyuwangi Regency would be transparent. Through the provided site, travelers could also make reviews of their trip experience so as to maintain the quality of tourist destinations.

Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Wishnutama Kusubandio welcomed Banyuwangi Regency’s plan to reopen tourism following months-long COVID-19 closure. He confirmed that the implementation of strict health protocols is a vital strategy to attract tourists.

Read also: New Normal: Banyuwangi Preps 3 Phases to Kick-start Tourism

FRANCISCA CHRISTY ROSANA