TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) government is determined to control tourist boats operating in Labuan Bajo and in the waters of Komodo Island, West Manggarai Regency.

“We have coordinated with various related parties to regulate tourist ships operating in Labuan Bajo. Ships that do not own operating permits will absolutely be prohibited from transporting tourists to Komodo Island,” said the Head of the NTT Tourism Agency Sony Zeth Libing when contacted in Kupang, Tuesday, July 5, 2022.

Sony made the statement following the existence of illegal boats transporting tourists to Komodo Island.

“Ships used to transport tourists must be seaworthy by meeting security and safety standards for passengers, especially tourists,” he said.

“Tourist ships operating in West Manggarai Regency must dock in Labuan Bajo, otherwise don't operate in Labuan Bajo,” Sony added.

The NTT government, he said, would be more assertive in boat control following the recent marine accident cases that befell tourists in the waters of Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency. The accidents were allegedly due to ships that did not meet the specified safety standards.

“Security officers will certainly act decisively because the NTT Regional Government does not want such accidents involving tourists to recur in the area,” Sony concluded.

MARTHA WARTA SILABAN

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