Tourists Ride 'Bemo' to Komodo Airport as Labuan Bajo Travel Business Goes on Strike

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A number of foreign tourists rode bemo and other public transportation like to Komodo Airport as the only option available. Travel agency workers in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara are on strike, protesting the government's decision to raise the ticket price to enter Komodo Island.  

"Since yesterday there were no vehicles [from travel agencies], so we help these tourists go to the airport," one of the city minibus drivers, Rio (28), said in Komodo Airport, Tuesday, August 2. 

City transportation cars, also known and angkot, drive both tourists—local and foreign—to the airport as travel agencies' vehicles are not operating due to the strike. 

"We feel sorry for the tourists, so we drive them," Rio said. 

Per ride, Rio gets Rp50,000. He said that on Monday he took two trips to the airport. Today, he drove once, taking a group of tourists.

The West Manggarai Regency also helps by providing government officials' buses and cars for the tourists. The Regent, Edistasius Endi, ensured that tourists can still enjoy their activities in Labuan Bajo. 

"We are making sure that all services are top notch. If there are difficulties finding transportation, we will provide it," he said. 

This morning, activities at Komodo Airport were quite normal. Visitors were seen picked up to and from the airport by private cars or government cars.

Martha Warta Silaban

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