TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno supported the Jakarta provincial government's plan to reopen the National Monument (Monas) area for tourists, saying that it will positively affect the tourism and creative economy sector.

“We have coordinated [the opening of] Monas with the provincial government. We have made the request before Lebaran (Eid al-Fitr) because apart from Ancol, TMII, and Ragunan Zoo, Monas has been eagerly awaited,” said Sandiaga in his statement, Tuesday, May 24. 2022.

According to him, Monas as one of the city’s icons is a favorite destination for not only domestic tourists but also foreign tourists.

“As we have international and national events, many of them (foreign tourists) are interested in visiting Jakarta, and Monas will be the main attraction,” he added.

Monas had been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared in an effort to prevent the virus transmission. During the closure, many tourists came and could only take pictures in front of the gate.

The improving COVID-19 condition also backed the plan to reopen the area. Besides, President Joko Widodo recently relaxed the mask mandate outdoors. However, Sandiaga reminded the public not to neglect the health protocols.

Sandiaga Uno also said that if the COVID-19 condition gets more controlled, Monas will start welcoming visitors in the next two weeks. Previously, Jakarta has again allowed Car Free Day or CFD event beginning May 22.

NINIS CHAIRUNNISA

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