Indonesian President says ASEAN Summit becomes momentum to promote Labuan Bajo

Labuan Bajo, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has said that the 42nd ASEAN Summit would help to promote Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai district, and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) as attractive tourist destinations to the world.

“We indeed are having a precious opportunity by hosting the ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo. We can use this momentum to show the world that we have a tourist destination called Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara,” the president said at the Komodo Airport of Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, NTT, Sunday afternoon.

President Jokowi also expressed appreciation to all parties that have been working to organize the international-level event.

According to the president, a number of parties from various sectors have been showing their support for the event by preparing receptions, culinary events, homestays, and hotels.

He affirmed that there were not many rooms left unreserved. In fact, the government has also provided ships for additional rooms.

However, he said, the 42nd ASEAN Summit would still serve as a valuable moment for Labuan Bajo to echo its name both at the national and international levels.

President Jokowi arrived at the Komodo Airport, Labuan Bajo, with First Lady Iriana at 15.32 Central Indonesian Standard Time (WITA), boarding the presidential special aircraft.

At the airport, the couple were welcomed by Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi, Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Minister Basuki Hadimuljono, Indonesian Defense Forces Commander Admiral Yudo Margono, National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo, as well as NTT Governor Viktor Laiskodat and his deputy Josef Nae Soi.

On the occasion, the president also emphasized that Labuan Bajo was ready to host the ASEAN Summit.

“Two days left before the summit. Everything is ready,” Jokowi concluded.