TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The travel bubble program Indonesia established with Singapore, with destinations to Batam and Bintan, is currently still shut by lack of permit from the Singaporean government. Meanwhile, the Indonesian government has performed a simulation for tourist arrivals at the Nongsa Pura Harbor, Batam, on Wednesday, February 2.

The Nongsa resort and golf management association declared their readiness to welcome Singaporean tourists. "During yesterday's simulation, everything went smoothly and we are ready," said Nongsa Sensation Chairman Anddy Fong to Tempo on February 3, 2022.

According to Fong, the association is waiting for Singapore’s permission to transport tourists from the country, which is supposedly scheduled for Friday, February 4.

He claimed a number of tourists were eager to spend their vacation at the Nongsa Batam, “Many of our guests have asked when they can arrive. They are stressed from work and want to go on vacation,” said Fong who is also the general manager of Batam View Beach Resort.

The Singapore - Bintan, Batam travel bubble has started for trial on January 24, however, to this day, not one tourist from Singapore has arrived at the two tourism regions.

Tourism observer Siska Mandalia said the implementation of the travel bubble scheme must be based on an agreement between two countries. Each country must have clear health protocol rules and promote tourism between the two.

Read: Jokowi Arrives in Bintan to Meet Singapore PM; Discuss Travel Bubble

YOGI EKA SAHPUTRA