The Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, announced new direct charter flights to Belitung Island, which aims to enhance tourism and attract investors to the island’s Special Economic Zones.
According to Uno, the planned direct charter flights will follow the routes of Singapore-Tanjung Pandan (Belitung Island) and Kuala Lumpur-Tanjung Pandan (Belitung Island). Moreover, focusing on the island’s Special Economic Zones, Uno particularly hoped that the upcoming flight routes would be able to entice potential investors’ interest in areas such as Kelayang Bay.
“Direct flights, especially from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, have generated interest [from potential investors]. Hopefully, we can make this a reality. The Minister of Transportation has agreed, and the President [Joko Widodo] has also supported it,” he explained during a visit to Kelayang Bay, Keciput Tourism Village, Belitung Regency, on Thursday, the 5th of September.
Moreover, Uno added that the frequency of these charter flights is expected to gradually increase, starting with once a week followed by three times a week and, eventually, on a daily basis. Regarding the status of H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin Airport, which is currently operating as a domestic airport as well as the main and only airport serving Belitung Island, Uno clarified that once direct flights from abroad are finally in effect, the necessary facilities will be provided by the government as the infrastructure is already in place.
“We will coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation, Immigration, Customs, and Quarantine Offices. Essentially, we are keen to bring in charter flights from two countries that have expressed readiness, namely Singapore and Malaysia,” he added.
Uno, lastly, noted that the potential of sports tourism on Belitung Island could have a considerable multiplier effect, with its benefits are expected to be directly enjoyed by the local community. Additionally, the island’s remarkable culture and natural beauty could further support these activities.
“I see the strength of Belitung’s tourism in two key areas: sports-based tourism and special interest-based tourism,” Uno asserted after inaugurating the Indonesia Sport and Special Interest Tourism Association of the Regional Representative Council for Bangka Belitung Islands Province in Tanjung Pandan on Friday, the 6th of September.