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Indonesia Prepares for MotoGP; Lombok Airport-Mandalika Bypass to Finish in 2021
The 17-kilometer bypass will be one of the supporting infrastructure for the 2021 MotoGP event.
Date: November 7, 2020
Source: Tempo.com
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The government is targeting the bypass construction from Lombok International Airport to the Mandalika Special Economic Zone to be completed in August 2021. The 17-kilometer bypass will be one of the supporting infrastructure for the 2021 MotoGP event.
Febry Calvin Tatelepta, first deputy of the Presidential Staff Office, reviewed the road access from Lombok Airport to the Mandalika MotoGP circuit on Wednesday, November 4.
“Everything must be completed and we must succeed together in [organizing] the MotoGP,” Febry said. “We are here to monitor the readiness of MotoGP 2021, starting from Lombok airport to roads.”
Meanwhile, West Nusa Tenggara Governor Zulkieflimansyah said that all construction works needed for the MotoGP 2021 are on going. Zulkieflimansyah also underlined that people’s welfare must be prioritized in every development. He does not want the Mandalika MotoGP event to be enjoyed only by a handful of people, without involving the community.
Febry said that in the development process, the government and all parties related to the implementation of MotoGP must coordinate with the communities. “No society should be harmed,” he said.
Top Halal Tourism Destination – Indonesia
Gorgeous bright orange sunset photo taken from a romantic pier in an Indonesia waterfront location. The image showcases Indonesia as a destination for Halal Tourism.
Date: April 22, 2018
Source: eTurboNews (eTN)
Indonesia will reveal Lombok as one of its top four Halal Tourism Destinations – paired with travelers’ countries of origins, at ATM Dubai’s Global Halal Tourism Summit, on April 24.
Bali is by far Indonesia’s most popular destination; however, it is not its most Halal-friendly one. With that in mind, Indonesia designated four top Halal destinations that are alternatives to Bali. At ATM Dubai’s Global Halal Tourism Summit, Mr. Riyanto Sofyan, Chairman of Halal Tourism Acceleration and Development Team, Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, will share the pairing of award winning Halal destinations with countries of origin as well as each group of traveler’s specific preferences.
For example, Muslim travelers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar prefer destinations with natural beauty, and like to stay at beach or mountain resorts. They enjoy spas as well as shopping, prefer four and five-star accommodation, and enjoy having Middle Eastern cuisine options available. GCC travelers tend to travel as large families, and usually book with travel agencies. Based on their preferences, West Sumatera, Jakarta, and Lombok are the top destinations that match the requirements of GCC travelers.
The West Sumatera region is known for its natural beauty as well as its cuisine; with its rendang dish being nominated as one of the best foods in the world in a CNN poll last year. The capital Jakarta is best known for shopping and entertainment; its Thousand Islands is famous for its luxury resorts, snorkeling and water sports. Lombok, dubbed the land of a thousand mosques, is home to the second highest volcano in Indonesia. It won the World’s Best Halal Honeymoon Destination and World’s Best Halal Tourism Destination in 2015.
At the summit, Mr. Sofyan will additionally share destination pairing for Muslim travelers from Europe, including Germany, the UK, France, Russia and Turkey; as well as destination pairing for travelers from Asia and Southeast Asia including Malaysia, Singapore, China, Japan, Korea and India. For example, Aceh, which is well known for water sports, including snorkeling and diving, is popular with adventure seeking Muslim travelers from the West as well as from Asia Pacific. Its Islamic heritage and culture – it is famous for its Saman Dance which is on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage – make it suitable for Muslim travelers who enjoy Islamic heritage and cultural aspects.
Mr. Sofyan will also discuss Indonesia’s Halal travel marketing strategy. “Our marketing and promotional mix is focused on what the destination has to offer in terms of general tourism attractions, such as, sceneries, sight-seeing, culinary adventures, shopping tourism, and other attractions, while promoting Indonesia as a family-friendly destination with Halal Certified Food, Prayer Spaces, and other Muslim requirements,” says Mr. Riyanto Sofyan.
North Lombok International Yacht Marina
Sail Komodo participants ride a small boat after getting off their yacht in Medana Bay Marina.
Date: April 21, 2018
Source: The Jakarta Post
North Lombok International Yacht Marina at Medana Bay Marina in Medana Beach, North Lombok regency, has been declared a special tourist terminal for international yachts, in a move that opens up access to foreign tourists looking to explore West Nusa Tenggara.
According to tempo.co, the marina’s management company, PT Wisata Alam Samudra, said the decision was made official through Transportation Ministerial Decree No. 567/2018 on April 3.
With the move, Medana Bay Marina is now the only seaport in West Nusa Tenggara that can handle all processes related to customs, immigration, quarantine and port masters. Previously, foreign yachts that wanted to visit the location were required to register with one of 19 ports, including those in Tual, Maluku; Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara and Benoa, Bali.
The picturesque white-sand beach of Gili Meno in the same North Lombok Regency as Medana Bay.
Sail Komodo participants ride a small boat after getting off their yacht in Medana Bay Marina, North Lombok, on Sept. 15, 2017.
Medana Bay Marina in Medana Beach, North Lombok regency, has been declared a special tourist terminal for international yachts, in a move that opens up access to foreign tourists looking to explore West Nusa Tenggara.
According to tempo.co, the marina’s management company, PT Wisata Alam Samudra, said the decision was made official through Transportation Ministerial Decree No. 567/2018 on April 3.
With the move, Medana Bay Marina is now the only seaport in West Nusa Tenggara that can handle all processes related to customs, immigration, quarantine and port masters. Additionally, North Lombok was also chosen as the country’s global hub for international ships.
Previously, foreign yachts that wanted to visit the location were required to register with one of 19 ports, including those in Tual, Maluku; Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara and Benoa, Bali.
Medana Bay Marina was built in 2009 on 6,000 square meters of land and a reserve of 5 hectares, mostly to cater to yachts that travel to and from Australia and New Zealand. Annually, it welcomes an average of 90 yachts per year, “especially during the Sail Indonesia event,” said the marina’s owner and president director, Ace Robin.
In September, the management plans to add new facilities and equipment, such as a boat trailer that comes with a slipway to safely help people disembark 30-ton yachts and reach land.
New International Mandalika Hotels Coming
Portion of the area of the Mandalika Resort Mega Development project (now under construction in Kuta, Lombok Indonesia) slated for new international hotels.
Date: 18 April 2018
Source: netralnews.com
Indonesia Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Rini Soemarno has launched the groundbreaking of the Paramount Lombok Resort & Residence project in Mandalika Tourism Region – one of several new International Mandalika hotels planned for the Lombok Mega Resort.
This project is developed by state-owned construction company Pembangunan Perumahan (IDX:PTPP) through its subsidiary, PP Properti (IDX:PPRO), in cooperation with EBD Paragon. The resort is built on an area of 7.65 hectares. The resort, worth IDR1.3 trillion, is expected to be operate more than 400 rooms by 2020.
The Mandalika area is developed by state-run Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC). The construction of Paramount Resort is a testament to investor confidence in the commitment of ITDC in accelerating the development of The Mandalika.
“PTPP’s investment in the Paramount Lombok Resort & Residences project is a realization of the synergy of SOEs in the development of The Mandalika,” Rini said in an official statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday (04/18).
The development of Paramount Lombok Resort & Residences follows a number of international-scale hotel developments in The Mandalika that had already started, including the Pullman Hotel and Royal Tulip Hotel. The 270-room Pullman Hotel had started construction on October, 2017, while groundbreaking of the 198-room Royal Tulip Hotel was conducted on March 26, 2018.
Other international-standards hotels that will be developed in The Mandalika are the 240-room Hotel X2, 342-room Grand Mercure Hotel, as well as the 173-room Aloft by Marriot, among others.
In total, ITDC has secured investment commitment worth IDR13.5 trillion in the framework of The Mandalika’s development. In addition to hotel and resort investments, ITDC has also secured a committment with France-based SOE Vinci Grand Project to develop the Mandalika Street Race Circuit Cluster. The 120-hectare cluster project will be a part of the international-class accommodations at The Mandalika.
While in terms of employment, it is estimated in the next five years, Mandalika will be able to absorb nearly 5,000 workers, gradually. By 2030, the projected development of The Mandalika can employ up to 56,000 workers.
“Congratulations to the ITDC, I appreciate and fully support the positive efforts that have been, and will be done in order to develop Lombok’s tourism and economy,” Rini added.SOEs must also be able to work together in synergy best for the nation, “said Rini.
Gili T Top DIVE Magazine Destination!
Gili Trawangan – one of DIVE Magazines top 4 dive destinations, is renowned for its laid-back lifestyle.
Date: Aptil 12, 2018
Source: DIVE Magazine
Gili Trawangan and its two nearby sister islands in the north of Lombok – Gili Air and Gili Meno, are all popular live aboard dive boat destinations, thanks to the unspoiled nature of the area and abundant marine life.
Gili Trawangan, and its two nearby sister islands in the north of Lombok – Gili Air and Gili Meno, all are a popular live aboard dive boating destinations thanks to the unspoiled nature of the area and abundant marine life.
Gili Trawangan, or Gili T, is the largest of the islands and is well known for technical diving.
The islands are home to mangrove forests and motorised transport is not allowed on the islands. Divers can learn about technical diving at Gili T, explore the reefs surrounding the island and then venture into the waters further out, where the island slopes off. Reef sharks patrol the reefs and mantas are also sometimes seen. It is possible to see mola mola when the current is running.
Calico Jack live aboard dive boat cruising the Indonesian Ocean. Stops at Lombok’s Gili Trawangan are a favorite due to pristine conditions and recent designation as Gili T Top DIVE Magazine Destination.
Gili Trawangan is one of DIVE Magazines top 4 dive destinations. Shark Point is one of the deeper dive sites in the Gilis and is very popular for its shallow reef and turtles, plus the chance to see reef sharks and stingrays while exploring the deep canyons that typify this site. The maximum dive depth is around 50m (164ft). Deep Turbo is a seamount a coral garden on top and a variety of canyons, overhangs and outcrops. The currents can be very challenging at Deep Turbo and the maximum dive depth is 32m (104 ft).
Another dive highlight worth visiting in the area is Takat Tunang. This site is located to the northwest of Lombok and is a deep reef dive to a maximum depth of 45m(147ft). The dive site consists of a 150m (492ft) long wall with a drop-off and a coral plateau at 20m (65ft) depth. There are pristine corals at this site, sharks are commonly seen, and there are large schools of pelagic fish.
The best time to dive in Indonesia is between May and September. Lombok and Bali are the main departure points close to the Gili islands and there are a variety of liveaboard options to suit all budgets. The Calico Jack liveaboard is an Indonesian sailing boat and offers safaris to the Gili islands and Komodo.
Indonesia Targets One Million Homes Yearly
Icon’s 3D-Printed House was spawned from the desire to provide inexpensive shelter for the 1 billion people on the planet that don’t have a place to call home. Indonesia may employ this technology to reach its houseing goal of 1,000,000 new homes per year.
Date: April 12, 2018
Source: RE Talk Asia
As Indonesia targets one million homes yearly, the Minsitry of Public Works and People’s Housing admits not yet being able to reach the magic million.
Indopos reports almost 700,000 homes were built in 2015, increasing to just over 800,000 in 2016 and climbing to 904,000 homes built in 2017. The target for this year is expected to be 1.1 million they say.
The million homes program (known locally as PSR) earmarks 70% of the homes for low-income households (MBR) and 30% to those with higher incomes (non-MBR). This is a much needed initiative as Kompas claim there is a backlog of some 11.6 million homes that still need building.
To facilitate this, Indonesia the government already has aspects of funding and subsidies in place and is also making the process of licensing and permits easier hoping to encourage central and local governments, developers, private businesses and banks to get more involved.
Gapura Bali recently reported that the National Development and Planning Ministry (PPN/Bappenas) is also looking to use Green Bonds-sukuk to finance the government’s million homes initiative.
Even though red-tape has been significantly reduced and financial incentives are being provided it isn’t all smooth sailing.
In a recent report in The Jakarta Post the Public Works and Housing Ministry were said to have conducted inspections on projects and found many houses had been constructed below standard and, according to the report, they have threatened to blacklist under performing developers as a result.
The Ministry’s financial planning director, Eko Poerwanto told The Jakarta Post “It is regrettable that they did not perform well because the project is to help low-income households to own houses,” adding the government provided the subsidy to ensure houses were of a good quality.
It seems however, there could be a game-changing digital solution.
Merdeka are reporting that President Jokowi is aware of, and talking publicly about, a new technological breakthrough in 3D printing capable of printing a house in 24 hours. “Imagine using 3D printing technology at just about a third of the cost of traditional old construction. We can imagine what kind of revolution will happen,” he was reported as saying at the Jakarta Convention Center recently.
If the costs and time frame of building could be so drastically reduced, while maintaining a consistent quality, resources could then be thrown at the often overlooked infrastructure aspects such as roads, schools, hospitals, waste, water management and energy, particularly alternative energy, all of which have positive implications for local communities.
This would indeed be ‘revolutionary’ and it could help the initiative reach a critical mass.
Merdeka went on to say that Dubai is already planning to embrace this technology. “The Dubai government last year also announced its intention to have 25% of all new buildings in Dubai over the next 20 years built using use 3D printing technology to accelerate the process of construction.”
Indonesia To Launch Halal Tourism Accelerated Development
A tourist takes a selfie in front of Fatahillah Museum in Jakarta’s Old Town, a popular tourist spot in Jakarta, Indonesia
Date: April 11, 2018
Source: SalaamGateway.com
Indonesia’s Team for Halal Tourism Accelerated Development, a taskforce under the ministry of tourism, will launch the Indonesia Muslim Travel Index (IMTI) in September to track and benchmark the nation’s progress in the development of its halal tourism industry, said Riyanto Sofyan, its chairman.
IMTI is a range of key performance indicators (KPIs) in line with halal industry benchmark the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) that since 2011 has measured the level of Muslim-friendly travel in 130 countries. Indonesia climbed one rank to joint second place with the United Arab Emirates on the GMTI 2018, behind Malaysia that retains pole position as the Muslim-friendliest destination.
Indonesia’s index will use GMTI’s four overarching criteria—access, communication, environment, and service—and include more detailed metrics to assess the country’s halal tourism development, according to Sofyan.
“IMTI will present a list of top cities, regencies and provinces such as Lombok, West Sumatra, Aceh, Jakarta, West Java, East Java including Malang and Banyuwangi, South Sulawesi, Riau, Central Java including Jogjakarta, as well as Raja Ampat Papua,” said Sofyan.
The exercise will help the Indonesian government identify areas that require improvement.
“In line with this, there will be capacity building for the tourism workforce, industry players and communities, as well as increasing halal certification, or even assistance from the halal auditor the Majelis Ulama Indonesia (MUI),” said Sofyan.
The work will also extend to improving infrastructure. Sofyan gave the example of the Islamic Center Mosque development in Lombok, which received 1.5 billion Indonesian rupiah ($109,000) in funding from the ministry of tourism to improve its lighting system. The same support could be given to any regional government that shows a commitment to develop its region as a halal destination.
Sofyan pointed out that Indonesia has an extensive halal tourism infrastructure but the level of halal certification is very low.
According to him, at the end of 2017, the nation had 15,837 hotels serving halal food and beverages, 37,412 halal restaurants, 240 halal spas, 375 malls with prayer facilities, and 1,604 halal travel agencies. However, not all are halal-certified.
“The problem is, we usually forget to certify our hotels and other premises, compared to competitors such as Malaysia and even non-Islamic countries like Japan and Thailand that are more aggressive in certifying their halal tourism infrastructure,” said Sofyan.
At the end of 2017, Muslim visitor arrivals in Indonesia reached 2.7 million, up 22.8 percent compared to the previous year. This is a small number compared to the 131 million Muslims who travelled worldwide in 2017, according to the GMTI.
Indonesia’s government is aiming for 3.8 million Muslim visitors this year. It hopes that big events such as the annual meeting of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank in Bali in October and the Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang in August will boost Muslim tourist arrivals.
Lombok a Muslim-Friendly Destination
Tourists enjoy the view at Bukit Merese Hills in Lombok, Indonesia.
Date: April 8, 2018
Source: ABS-CBN News
A speedboat away from party beach Bali, Lombok in Indonesia has something to offer tourists of all backgrounds and beliefs especially those looking for a Muslim-friendly destination for a Halal Tourism vacation.
While it continues to attract Western tourists because of its beaches, Lombok also seeks to promote its Islamic heritage and boost tourist arrivals of Muslim travelers.
The Indonesian Islamic Tourism Association of West Nusa Tenggara in Indonesia, in partnership with the Embassy of Indonesia in the Philippines and supported by Air Asia Philippines, recently invited media and tour operators from 10 countries around the globe to Lombok.
Based on the tour, here’s what makes Lombok a Muslim-friendly destination.
The Islamic Center in Mataram.
1. Mosques and availability of prayer rooms
Indonesia’s indigenous Sasak tribe is predominantly Muslim though the Balinese Hindu culture also remains in Lombok. While you can find a number of Hindu temples here, Lombok is more known for its mosques. In fact, it’s called the “island of 1,000 mosques” and Muslim tourists are sure to find places of worship and shrines dedicated to ancient Muslim preachers in between sightseeing and beach-hopping.
The call to prayer or the Adhaan can be heard throughout Lombok and Muslim tourists can easily find prayer facilities for men as well as women. Airports are also equipped with prayer rooms for those in transit.
The Islamic Center in Mataram is the grandest and largest mosque in West Nusa Tenggara, welcoming visitors of all faiths. The mosque contains a massive central prayer hall. Visitors can even climb to the top of the minaret, 13 floors above street level to get amazing views of the whole southern part of the island.
The Islamic Center is a designated Shariah tourist area and mandatory Muslim clothing is required. Non-Muslim tourists wearing clothes such as shorts or off-the-shoulder shirts will need to wear traditional Muslim clothing to enter.
Other notable places of worship to visit include the Masjid Bayan Beleq, the oldest mosque in Lombok; and Selong Great Mosque, the main mosque on the island.
A villa room at Black Penny in Gili Trawangan island. The hotel is not Crescent-rated but has a restaurant that serves Halal dishes.2. Halal hotels with Muslim-friendly facilities
Finding a place to stay in Lombok is not a problem for Muslim travelers as more hotels seek to gain Shariah certification, which is designated by a Crescent Rating, the globally recognized rating standards based on the Halal/Muslim friendly services it provides.
In order to be certified, hotels must have signs pointing towards Mecca, contain copies of the Koran in their rooms and have a kitchen where halal food is prepared.
Halal hotels often do not have adult TV channels and must ensure water-friendliness (bidet sprays) are part of their sanitary facilities.
Some Muslim-friendly hotel and resort options include Holiday Resort Lombok, Svarga Resort Lombok and Kebun Villas & Resort, to name a few. The Santosa Villas & Resort Lombok offers Halal breakfast, does not serve pork or alcoholic beverages in their restaurant, has a mushola (prayer room), as well as a spa center with male and female therapists for same-gender services.
3. Halal cuisine
Finding Halal cuisine is often a challenge for Muslim travelers in many destinations, but in Lombok, tourists don’t have to go out of their way to find one. Restaurants serving international and local cuisine can be found throughout the island, with top Halal-assured and Halal-certified places, as well as establishments that label their food, found within the main city areas. Seafood and vegetarian restaurants can also be found widely in Lombok.
For those heading to Gili Trawangan island, Black Penny Villas Restaurant offers Halal options and Indonesian favorites like nasi goreng (fried rice mixed with chicken, shrimps and shredded vegetables) and mie goreng (fried yellow noodles)
The in-house restaurant of Kila Senggigi Beach Hotel also offers various Halal and traditional Lombok dishes including Ayam Taliwang (grilled spring chicken with Lombok spices), Sate Rembiga (beef satay), Sate Ikan Tanjung (fish satay mixed with coconut milk, lemongrass, chilli pepper), Plecing Kangkung (spicy water spinach dish) and Bebalung (beef ribs soup).
Tourists can also find internationally known fast-food joints in Lombok such as KFC and McDonald’s all of which are Halal.
4. Less-crowded destinations
Lombok offers all tourists a variety of fun activities to do and and sights to see from cultural attractions to outdoor activities.
The Gili Islands — three small remote islands lying just offshore of Lombok — are popular tourist hubs for visiting tourists. Gili Trawangan, the party island, is the largest, most developed and most lively of the three. Gili Meno offers a small and quiet escape ideal for honeymooners, while Gili Air offers a good laidback and chill mix of the two.
The beach spots are deemed less-crowded compared to Bali, with vibrant beachfront restaraunts serving various (including Halal) food options, beaches and water-based activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing and fishing. In fact, local guides liken Lombok to how Bali was 20 years ago.
On the main island, popular beaches in Lombok include Selong Belanak Beach, Mawun Beach, and Tanjung Aan Beach, where there are lower chances for Muslim travelers to encounter Western tourists dressed in skimpy clothing and bikinis.
Kuta Mandalika is a privately owned area of land that has been set out for high-end, luxury development including 5-star hotels, a golf course, private villas and residences, marine and watersports activities.
A highlight for travelers is to hike up Bukit Merese Hill on Kuta Lombok, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of different coves below.
For those who have time, trekking to the peak of Mount Rinjani is another top draw in Lombok. Standing at 3,726 meters, this is one of Indonesia’s highest volcanoes.
5. Wide souvenir options
No trip is complete without buying souvenirs to take home to friends and family. The best place for souvenir shopping here is Sasaku Lombok, a large warehouse style boutique that sells a wide range of clothing options including traditional sarongs and textiles and designer t-shirts that represent modern-day Lombok.
A highlight for travelers is to hike up Bukit Merese Hill on Kuta Lombok, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of different coves below.
For those who have time, trekking to the peak of Mount Rinjani is another top draw in Lombok. Standing at 3,726 meters, this is one of Indonesia’s highest volcanoes.
5. Wide souvenir options
No trip is complete without buying souvenirs to take home to friends and family. The best place for souvenir shopping here is Sasaku Lombok, a large warehouse style boutique that sells a wide range of clothing options including traditional sarongs and textiles and designer t-shirts that represent modern-day Lombok.For those who want to go pearl shopping, head to Gem Pearls and Restaurant, which offers a wide range of good quality pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
Lombok Hosts Tour de Lombok & Marathons
Lombok is now set to host the new Tambora Challenge race in addition to the Tour de Lombok 2018 race, which will be joined by 18 cycling teams from other countries and will held for three day in Lombok, West Nusa Tanggara Indonesia, from April 13 to 15, 2018.
Date: April 3, 2018
Source: The Jakarta Post
As Lombok Hosts Tour de Lombok & Marathons in West Nusa Tenggara it has continually developed as a tourist destination for sports enthusiasts when, from early 2016, the bicycle race Grand Fondo New York (GFNY) Indonesia was held.
This year, Lombok is offering many sporting activities for travelers from April to May.
According to tempo.co, the Tambora Challenge, a 320-kilometer marathon, will kick off four days of events from Pototano in West Sumbawa to Doro Ncanga Dompu from April 4 to 7.
Tambora Challenge will also commemorate the 203rd year of the Mount Tambora eruption. Said to be the most challenging and longest marathon in Southeast Asia, it will take participants 72 hours or three days to finish the race.
Moreover, the Tour de Lombok 2018, which will be joined by 18 cycling teams from other countries, will be held for three days from April 13 to 15.
Meanwhile, May 4 and 5 will be the dates for the Rinjani 100 marathon, which will take place on and around Mount Rinjani.
West Nusa Tenggara Tourism Improved
Gorgeous white sand beaches like this – some of the very best in Indonesia, combined with a pristine, unspoiled and relatively undeveloped natural environment are just a few of the reasons Lombok tourism improved.
Date: November 18, 2017
Source: Jakarta Post
Following the launch of Mandalika Special Economic Zone (KEK), the tourism in West Nusa Tenggara province is gaining more and more recognition.
“There are three strategic moves that NTB has successfully done and resulted in the increase of the number of tourists,” explained head of Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) West Nusa Tenggara, Abdul Hadi Faishal.
Those three moves were celebrations of National Press Day (HPN) and Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) in 2016 and the launching of KEK Mandalika that fell in October 2017. All of these occasions were attended by President Joko Widodo.
KEK Mandalika is deemed as the first step in the string of big programs that aim to improve Indonesia’s tourism. The area is expected to create up to 58,000 jobs and earn more than Rp 13 trillion of investment.
Abdul added that Mandalika is also expected to have 2,000 hotel rooms by 2019.
For access, a road from the airport has been built. Now it only takes 30 minutes to travel to KEK Mandalika from Lombok International Airport.
KEK Mandalika is one of the Tourism Ministry’s 10 Priority Destinations. It has a total area of 1,034 hectares stretching from Kuta Beach to Seger Beach and Tanjung Aan Beach. The area is known for its Putri Mandalika Monument located in Seger Beach.
Other tourist sites available at KEK Mandalika are Merese Hill, Sade Traditional Village and Ende Traditional Village that is home to the Sasak people.
Lombok Family-Friendly Tourism Eyed
An image of the pristine, underwater landscape of Lombok. Travelers may gain a pleasant diving experience in Lombok or Gili Islands areas in the West Nusa Tenggara.
Date: October 21, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
Following the launch of Mandalika economic zone in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, on Oct. 20, Indonesia’s Tourism Minister vows to make the Mandalika Resort a Lombok Family-Friendly Tourism destination.
Minister Arief Yahya said that Lombok needs to differentiate itself from Bali and have its own brand hence the choosing of family-friendly concept for Lombok.
“For branding, Lombok has won three awards at the World Halal Tourism Award 2015 event and in 2016, Lombok took home 12 awards across 16 competitions,” said Arief.
In terms of development, one of the efforts that the ministry has done is improving the Islamic Centre in Mataram, “The target market is countries such as Malaysia and Middle East,” said Arief.
“The resort occupancy has so far reached 86 percent. The capacity number of resorts and city hotels also keeps on growing; currently it’s still above 65 percent. There’s also a 24 percent increase in the number of foreign tourists,” added NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu Faozal.
Arief is also concerned with Rinjani, from its waste problem to homestays.
In other news, “the ministry is trying hard for Rinjani to earn the title of global geopark by UNESCO,” Faozal said.
Mandalika Special Economic Zone Launched
View of Kuta Beach, part of the Mandalika tourist area, in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.
Date: October 20, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo officiated on Friday at the inauguration of the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (KEK) at Mandalika Beach, West Nusa Tenggara.
“KEK Mandalika is expected to become a special tourist area with international standards that will make us proud,” Jokowi said during his speech to officially open the 1,175-hectare KEK.
KEK Mandalika is operated by the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC).
The event was attended by several ministers, including Coordinating Economic Minister Darmin Nasution, who is also chairman of the National KRK Council; State-owned Enterprises Minister Rini Soemarno, Tourism Minister Arief Yahya, Agrarian, Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Sofyan Djalil and West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Governor Zainul Majdi.
Previously, ITDC president director Abdulbar M. Mansoer expressed his optimism that KEK Mandalika would help improve residents’ welfare.
At least 10 new businesses, such as homestays, restaurants, cafes and retail shops, have been opened since construction started on the special economic zone.
“The number of businesses will continue to grow in line with the development of the area,” he said, adding that in the next five years, KEK Mandalika was expected to create more than 5,000 jobs.
ITDC is currently developing basic infrastructure in the area, including 17-kilometer roads inside the special zone, clean water pipelines and electricity networks.
2018 IMF World Bank Meetings Preparations
Komodo Island and Lombok are just two of the over 60 tour packages designed in concert with members of Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) and other regional tourism departments.
Date: October 10, 2016
Source: The Jakarta Post
The month of October next year will be a historic time for Indonesia’s tourism as Bali will play host to 2018 IMF World Bank Meetings Annual Meetings.
Tourism Minister Arief Yahya considers this event an opportunity to promote Bali, Bali and Beyond and Wonderful Indonesia tourism brand. “The event will attract 18,000 delegates to visit Bali. The meeting will be attended by 189 countries represented by their finance ministers and central bank governors,” said Arief.
“This is the time to promote Indonesian tourist destinations even more, especially since the delegates are top executives whose spending is higher than regular tourists, which is around US$2,000 per person,” he added.
According to the ministry’s deputy assistant for Europe, US, Middle East and Africa tourism promotion Nia Niscaya, the ministry has prepared 60 tour packages to Bali and other six destinations, such as Lombok, Komodo Island, Yogyakarta, Tana Toraja, Lake Toba and Banyuwangi for the occasion.
“The promotion of these 60 tour packages is the result of a partnership between the ministry, the members of Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) and regional tourism departments,” said Nia.
For Bali, a total of 33 one-day tour packages has been prepared, of which 28 of them are Sightseeing Bali packages for golf, yoga, spa, snorkeling and diving activities.
“There are also two Bali cruises packages and three packages of President Obama’s napak tilas [journey] during his time in Bali. These packages are for one and five-day trips,” added Nia.
For Lombok, Komodo Island and Yogyakarta, there are five packages available to stay on the Gili Islands for two to four days, seven overland Komodo and Flores tour packages, and five packages ranging from Borobudur – Prambanan tour to Obama’s napak tilas for three days and two nights, respectively.
Four packages have also been prepared for Tana Toraja overland tour packages for three to four days, meanwhile five Lake Toba packages are ready complete with a direct flight to either Silangit or Kualanamu airports. There is also one package to Banyuwangi via Gilimanuk.
Set to be promoted online and on printed media, the packages are available on www.am2018bali.go.id where visitors can make an online booking and payment.
Both tourism and finance ministries are also going to hold an exhibition themed “Voyage to Indonesia” at the World Bank Building on Oct. 11-14 to promote these tour packages.
Indonesias Efforts Boosting Tourism
NHK’s Newsroom Tokyo anchors Hideki Nakayama and Aki Shibuya hosting the news feature “Indonesias Efforts Boosting Tourism” which highlights the Indonesia Tourism Ministry’s commitment to, actions and funding of the government’s massive ongoing effort to increase tourism in Indonesia.
Date: September 21, 2017
Source: NHK WORLD
As Indonesias Efforts Boosting Tourism come to fruition, the country is clearly departing from its long dependence on exports of oil and other resources to expand its economy. Now, the government is committed to other sources of growth and the area getting the most attention is tourism.
Indonesia is made up of 17,000 islands — many harboring pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Officials across the country hope to take advantage of these natural assets. They’re also working on other creative projects aimed at luring visitors from overseas.
Lombok Island is considered to have some of Indonesia’s most beautiful beaches. It’s only an hour’s boat ride from Bali, but has far fewer tourists than the famous resorts across the water. “The water is very clear, Nice and sunny. Absolutely beautiful,” says a tourist.
Foreign visitors are spoiled for choice in Indonesia – from temples to markets, rainforests to coral reefs. But the vast majority travel no further than Bali, Jakarta, or Batam Island near Singapore. The government wants to change that. It’s designated 10 regions to be developed as new tourist destinations. Top priority is a district on Lombok Island called Mandalika.
Apart from a beautiful beach, there is hardly any tourist entertainment in Mandalika. But now, the government is massively investing in the area to make it into an enormous resort area like the one in Bali. The Mandalika development project has been designated a special economic zone. The resort will aim to pull in 3 million tourists a year by 2019. Facilities will include a hotel complex, auto race circuit, and water theme park.
Construction workers are already on the job. Officials say the resort will be ready by 2019. Taufan Rahmadi is the government’s man in charge of the project. As appealing as they are, Taufan says white sandy beaches, mountain backdrop and exotic wildlife are not enough. He wants attractions that really stand out.
Taufan says they’re currently building a mosque. The new mosque will be big enough to accommodate 2,000 worshipers. But size is not the main draw. It has a round roof. “The design takes from Bayan mosque, traditional mosque in Lombok,” explains Taufan.
95 percent of the residents on Lombok Island are Muslims. The ethnic Sasaks follow an unorthodox version of Islam – and their buildings have a distinct architecture. The new mosque reflects that local style, creating a religious landmark that Taufan hopes will intrigue Muslims from other countries.
“The Indonesian government believes developing the tourism industry is one of the best ways to promote national growth. I hope to make Mandalika a place that will attract Muslim tourists from around the world,” says Taufan.
The tourism drive is not restricted to the government’s priority regions. An area in Semarang city, about an hour’s plane ride from Jakarta, is attracting attention for its colorful buildings and houses. The vivid colors cry out for social media attention. And it seems to have worked. People now come here to take pictures.
“The village is quite unique and colorful. I wanted to come see it.” “It’s very pretty and clean now, but it used to be a slum before it was painted,” say the tourists. That’s not an exaggeration. Before its technicolor makeover, the village was a shade of grey.
Village officials wanted to change the environment. Making use of a 25,000-dollar donation from local businesses, officials and residents rolled up their sleeves and got to work. By the time the paint ran out, some 240 houses, roads and bridges were ready for the cameras.
“I never imagined our village would become a tourist destination. But once we finished painting, people started coming from outside the village. Nowadays, we’re getting visitors from abroad,” says Erwin Sumarah, Deputy Head of the Wonsari tourism village board.
The mega paint job has boosted incomes, created jobs and made the village safer. Most importantly, the benefits are trickling down to those who need them most.
A woman who operates a shop in the village used to sell soap and cigarettes, but barely made enough to get by. Now, she makes smoothies for tourists — and the profits are sweet. “They say they’re going to make the painted area twice as large as it is now. If more people come to the village, I can make more money,” she says.
Indonesia has given its neighbors a big head-start in tourism, and the industry still has a lot of ground to cover. Public and private sectors are responding with creative ideas – and that’s another resource Indonesia seems to have in abundant supply.
New Lombok Seaweed Processing Plant
A farmer collects seaweed from the sea. Bandung-based cosmetics manufacturer Ocean Fresh has commenced the construction on a seaweed processing plant in Kuta, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara
Date: Fri, September 15, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
Bandung-based cosmetics manufacturer Ocean Fresh has kicked off construction on a seaweed processing plant in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), to benefit from the abundance of raw materials available in the area.
The firm’s founder and owner Linawati Hardjito said on Thursday that the plant would use seaweed cultivated by local farmers to make cosmetic products to meet the demand from hotels in the province.
“The cosmetics market in West Nusa Tenggara is big because tourism in the province is expanding, and the demand from hotels for products like soap and body scrub is also high,” Linawati said.
Construction of the plant is expected to finish by the end of this year and will employ local residents.
Ocean Fresh, which manufactures cosmetics products under the brand Segoro Algae, has been building a partnership with seaweed farmers in Sumbawa and West Sumbawa since 2015.
The head of cultivation at West Nusa Tenggara’s Maritime and Fisheries Agency, Sasi Ruswandi, welcomed the plant, saying that it would encourage the use of seaweed in products other than food.
“Our farmers still struggle with post-harvest and marketing issues. Therefore, the existence of processing plants like the cosmetics factory will be very beneficial,” he said.
Seaweed production is an important activity for fishers in Indonesia. In Lombok, however, it is a major enterprise involving whole village communities in a range of activities from trading to tourism. West Nusa Tenggara, a key seaweed production center in Indonesia, annually producing 1.2 million tons of seaweed, most of which is sold overseas.
Ministry Promotes Halal Tourism in China
Muslim tourist-friendly visitors spend time in a restaurant providing halal foods at Botani Square Shopping Mall in Bogor, West Java, on Oct.14. The Culture and Tourism Ministry awarded Botani Square as Indonesia’s best Muslim tourist-friendly shopping mall for 2016.
Date: August 26, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
Indonesia to hold Sales Mission Events in three cities in China namely Xi’an, Yinchuan and Beijing from September 4 to 7 as Tourism Ministry Promotes Halal Tourism.
The ministry invites 9 sellers from Indonesia and 60 buyers from each city in China to help promote halal tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Beijing, the capital city of China has a sizeable Muslim population and so does Yinchuan the capital city of Ningxia Hui which has 34 percent Muslim residents out of a total of 6.32 million.
Islam was said to enter Xi’an around the 7th century through merchants from Saudi Arabia and Persia. Xi’an Grand Mosque was built in the city in year 742. Moreover, the relationship between China and Indonesian Muslims goes as far back as the 15th century.
Halal tourism is currently growing in Indonesia with plenty of destinations being set up along with supporting facilities. One of the popular destinations is Lombok that has become the nation’s backbone for halal tourism.
Lombok won two awards at the World Halal Travel Awards in 2015 for World’s Best Halal destination and World’s Best Halal Honeymoon destination categories.
Other than Lombok, there are also West Sumatra and Aceh, which were also crowned as winners at the World Halal Travel Awards 2016. West Sumatra brought home two awards for World’s Best Halal Culinary and World’s Best Halal Destination, while Aceh earned the title of World’s Best Halal Cultural Destination.
“This is what we’re offering in these sales missions, there are also the other three destinations that will be highlighted in this event namely Bali, Jakarta and Batam. This event is supported by the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing and Garuda Indonesia,” said tourism ministry’s deputy minister for Overseas Promotion, I Gde Pitana.
According to the data from the tourism ministry, throughout the years of 2013 to 2016, there had been a significant increase of 15.5 percent for halal tourism. Meanwhile, the number of Chinese tourists coming to Indonesia keeps increasing, in 2016 the number went up 27 percent to 1,452,971 people.
“In 2017, the government’s target number for Chinese tourists is 2,057,000 people. The Sales Mission is one of the programs that can help the tourism ministry in achieving its target,” Pitana added.
Out of the overall 2017 target of 15 million overseas tourists, the government is targeting that 20 percent of them are for halal tourism, this number is still small compared to the number of tourists for halal tourism in Thailand that has reached six million people and then followed by Malaysia with five million and Singapore with four million.
By 2019, the number is expected to reach a quarter of the overall target of 20 million overseas tourists. On average, the tourist spending for halal tourism is between $ 1,500 – 1,700 per capita per day, higher than the spending of regular tourists with $ 1,200 per capita per day.
New Lombok Solar Power From Equis
Solar panels to be used in new Lombok Solar power project. Equis Energy has signed PPAs with Indonedia State Owned utility company (PT PLN) to develop 42 MW of solar capacity at multiple locations, including what will be the largest Photo Voltaic (PV) project in Indonesia.
Date: August 16, 2017
Source: RenewablesNow.com
Lombok Solar Power generation got a huge boost as Singapore-based renewable energy producer Equis Energy signed contracts with Indonesian state-owned utility PT PLN for the output of 42 Megawatts of new solar projects in Indonesia.
The power purchase agreements (PPAs) are for the generated electricity from three solar parks of 21 MW in total in Lombok and the 21-MW Minut plant in North Sulawesi province, Equis said on Tuesday. The Singaporean firm plans to start building works in the second half of the year with the aim of launching commercial operations in 2018.
Following completion, the Lombok and Minut photovoltaic (PV) plants will be able to produce 68,686 MWh of electricity each year, or enough to supply 51,000 homes. Their combined output will help offset 55,000 tonnes of cabon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually, Equis calculates.
Equis Energy said it is also working on the development of 337 MW of solar and 840 MW of wind projects in Indonesia. The company noted that the 21-MW Minut solar park will be the largest of its kind in the Asian country, once operational.
The Indonesian government has set target for a 23% renewables share by 2026, as compared to 12% currently.
Indonesia Tourism Destinations Take Off
Still active Kawah Ijen Volcano on the island of Java, Indonesia is a popular tourist destination. The volcano is known for its spectacular blue flames caused by the volcano’s burning sulfur, which is mined and sold by locals.
Date: August 10, 2017
Source: TTG Asia
Charter flights now taking travelers beyond Bali. Kawah Ijen volcano in Banyuwangi and Lombok are two of the many popular Indonesia Tourism Destinations
With the greater availability of charter flights, more Chinese and Indian tourists heading to Indonesia Tourism Destinations beyond the traditional hotspot of Bali.
Charter flights from China and India have increased 40-50 per cent from last year, driven by intense promotions and multi-destination packages, said Gajah Tour Bali general manager Bambang Sugiono.
Lombok, Banyuwangi, Bromo, Komodo and Belitung are most popular, according to Bambang, who added that tourists typically stay five days and favour water sports. Gajah Tour is planning to add more destinations such as Padang and Morotai.
Meanwhile, a recent charter addition is Korean Air’s seven flights from Incheon to Lombok between July and October 2017.
Testament to their success, some charters from China have turned into scheduled flights. These include Lion Air’s services to Jakarta from Sanya (Hainan) and to Manado from Shanghai and Guangzhou, as well as Garuda flights linking Jakarta to Shanghai and Guangzhou.
Charter flights are a way to escalate arrivals as the government works towards the target of 20 million visitors by 2019, said Eddy Sunyoto, international marketing manager at Association of The Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies.
New Lombok Tourism Polytechnic School
New Lombok Tourism Polytechnic school in Lombok – just outside Praya, West Nusa Tenggara
Date: August 5, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
The Tourism Ministry is set to kick off construction of the new Lombok Tourism Polytechnic School on August 10, in Puyung village, near Praya, in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).
The ministry’s deputy for institutional development, Ahman Sya, said the school would be built on a 20 hectare plot of land and would cost roughly Rp 1.5 trillion (US$113 million).
The money for the school will be allocated from the state budget.
“This year the government allocates Rp 130 billion from the budget and Rp 180 billion in 2018 for the construction,” he said during a coordination meeting at a hotel in the provincial capital of Mataram on Friday.
“The construction will be managed by state-owned construction company PT Brantas Abipraya,” he added.
Ahman explained that the construction would be conducted concurrently with the construction of a similar school in Palembang, South Sumatra.
There are currently four educational institutions dedicated to tourism in Indonesia, namely the Bali State Tourism Institute, the Bandung State Tourism Institute in West Java, the Makassar State Tourism Polytechnic in South Sulawesi and the Medan State Tourism Polytechnic in North Sumatra.
Ahman said a school dedicated to tourism in Lombok was crucial for the nation’s development in the tourist sector.
NTB Tourism Agency head Mohammad Faozal said the Lombok polytechnic had been actually running since 2016 but it does not yet have its own building.
“I hope with the new building the school can accommodate more students,” he said.
For more information and views of the campus, watch Utube video at: https://youtu.be/AzTS-uu0Bss?list=PLqNBeMxsxsEUi_rzf04JJztJWTP8kc-VJ
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Experts Assess $USD 3Billion Mandalika Resort
The $ USD 3 Billion Mandalika project’s grand plan stirs excitement for Lombok’s tourism boom, but what do experts think about it?
Date: July 20, 2107
Source: Indonesia Expat
Lombok has already gained extreme popularity – something that developers didn’t hesitate to take advantage of by investing in the USD 3Billion Mandalika Resort in Lombok.
Lombok Island in West Nusa Tenggara has the fastest growing tourism market in the region and thanks to increasing Lombok investment and new developments such as the international airport in Praya. Thus, achieving its robust goal of 20 million tourists by 2019 doesn’t seem so far-fetched.
Lombok will get a huge boost from the Mandalika Project. Worth an astounding $3,000,000,000,000, this Lombok investment project is considered the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia and construction will take place throughout 2017. Biz Events Asia says the $USD 3 Billion Mandalika Resort will be built as a Special Economic Zone (KEK) to drive economic growth and develop the island into one of the national tourism icons.
It is the brainchild of Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), formerly known as Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC), which was responsible for developing Bali’s Nusa Dua into a resort and meeting complex. The ambitious plan is to develop the area into sustainable tourism and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) destination. ITDC says it will be ready for completion by the end of 2018.
According to Invest Islands, the development of the mega Mandalika Resort in Kuta Bay, South Lombok will include the building of infrastructure complete with solar power plants, water treatment facilities and roads. It will offer 10,533 hotel rooms, 1,500 residential units, a theme park, an eco-park, a water park, a mangrove park, a large marina, an industrial street circuit and golf course. For both local residents and those considering Lombok investment, the Mandalika Resort project is predicted to become a major driver in increasing land values.
ITDC has been working hard to will increase opportunities for Lombok investment by large international developers. ITDC has a vision to “create a sophisticated tourist destination and therefore Mandalika would be home to several large hotels with popular brand names. This is sure to make Lombok a lucrative investment destination among investors from diverse backgrounds.”
They also point out that tourists will experience the perfect retreat among the natural beauty of Lombok and its availability of boutique resorts. Aside from their primary focus of developing 5-star and 4-star hotels, they will also develop 3-star hotels among other types to “expand the potential customer base to include those looking for more pocket-friendly Indonesia investment options.”
“We want to give visitors more options; we don’t want to simply recreate Bali,” says ITDC’s Head of Investment and Marketing, Ricky Baheramsjah as quoted by CEI Asia. “Mandalika is like Nusa Dua in 1975, so we see a lot of similarities. Although it’s largely Muslim, whereas Bali is Hindu, the scope of work is very similar. We have more than 40 years of experience managing and operating destinations and we’re hoping this experience will help facilitate the development and operation.”
With the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism’s goal to boost other business and leisure tourism destinations apart from Bali and Mandalika also being in the spotlight, CEI Asia quotes deputy minister for international tourism, I Gde Pitana, saying:
“Tourism is a major priority sector under the Jokowi (President Joko Widodo) government and we want to accelerate the development of destinations beyond Bali.”
He also adds: “We don’t want to leave Bali with the creation of ten new Balis, we want to help Bali with more sustainable development. Tourism is the best and fastest way to develop this country and we have a strong management plan and focus on infrastructure.”
Another article written by CEI Asia raises a million dollar question: “Should planners looking for an exciting new integrated resort with headline-grabbing facilities like a water park, theme park, equestrian park and a 3,000-hectare nature reserve consider Mandalika for major events as early as 2019?”
Without any hesitation, they say one shouldn’t. Accordingly, they’re “looking at the question from a historical perspective.” Problems have occurred in the past. Reportedly, the Indonesian Government sold Mandalika to the Dubai Development Corporation for US$240 million in 2007. However, the Global Financial Crisis hit a year later and funding dwindled, so the Emirates had no choice but to sell Mandalika back to the Indonesians for half the price – a 50 percent discount.
By 2011, the opening of an international airport brought the project back to life.
“Construction delays are part-and-parcel of doing business in Indonesia; Lombok’s international airport is a copybook example,” the author writes.
“The opening was delayed by years because of problems with site security, theft of construction materials, land disputes and compensation claims from locals. When it finally opened, it still looked like a construction site.”
Jason Lim, CEO of Smailing Tour DMC in Bali, thinks otherwise.
“I know there have been delays in the past, but ever since Jokowi took over, we can feel a real change and strong push towards tourism,” he shares to CEI Asia.
He continues on a positive note: “If you look at the team behind Mandalika – ITDC – they are very successful and professional. They have the experience, the expertise, connections, strong government support and the ability to attract good hotel partners. But the next big step will be bringing in people on international flights.”
Since Lombok International airport only currently has two foreign airlines – AirAsia and SilkAir – offering direct flights to the island, it might be a challenge to handle thousands of passengers all at once.
Foreseeing this concern, Lim says: “I don’t think they will get big groups in 2019. I predict smaller groups as big as 200 or 300 people will visit to start with. It will be a slow burn. But we’re very optimistic.”
A project of such a gigantic scale draws high expectations from the public especially tourists who cannot wait for the construction of luxurious hotels such as Club Med and Royal Tulip. Despite a few hiccups in the past, many are hopeful that this will drive the tourism boom in Lombok. Plus it’s a hot investment spot right now.
After all, its scenic views and ethereal charm are more than enough to captivate thousands or millions seeking for solitude in nature. We have yet to see how this project unfolds.
West Nusa Tenggara: Indonesia’s Next Big Thing!
Muhammad Zainul Majdi, Governor of West Nusa Tenggara, Lombok Island, Indonesia
Date: July 12, 2017
Source: TheWorldFolio.com
By cultivating its natural advantages, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara’s main island, is rapidly developing its economy and emerging as a regional hub.
One part of Indonesia has emerged in recent years as a growing tourism hub, with a progressive SME development policy and potential to develop a major green field maritime hub.
This is West Nusa Tenggara, locally known as NTB, a collection of heavily forested islands making up a prosperous and increasingly internationally branded province of Eastern Indonesia. The province begins directly to the east of Bali – the country’s tourism mecca. This collection of islands is best known for Sumbawa and Lombok, with the latter having emerged in recent years as an increasingly popular tourism destination.
For many, Lombok has become “The Unspoiled Bali” and is known as a tranquil alternative to its often hectic and crowded neighbor. The Gili Islands in particular, off the coast of Lombok, have become major drawcards for visitors seeking a relaxing, eco-tourism experience on its pristine, car-free shores.
“In 2008, NTB received 480,000 tourists, and then by 2013, we reached 1 million tourist arrivals. In the year of 2016, we have already achieved 2 million tourists. As we can see, the growth accelerates very quickly under the right conditions”
Muhammad Zainul Majdi, Governor, West Nusa Tenggara
The majority of the population of NTB is made of the Sasak ethnic group. They are related to the Balinese people, with religion the main distinguishing feature between the two peoples. The famous Gandrung dance – a fertility ritual undertaken by young women in golden eye masks (a well-known symbol of Bali) is also a Sasak tradition. The Gendang beleq marching drum dance is also a Sasak musical tradition. Here groups carrying enormous drums play in the streets wearing colorful costumes and public performances are a common site.
Dotting the green, forested landscape of Lombok are the charming, pile-built, bonnet shaped rice barns known as lumbung. These distinctive and quaint structures give villages a cozy, fairytale look.
Mataram on the west-coast of Lombok is the provincial capital. This historical sea port is known for its religious harmony with a plethora of Catholic churches, Hindu and Confucian temples and mosques existing side by side. The island’s Senggigi Beach tourism center is just a short distance from the city. White sand shores, crystal clear seas, fresh-water waterfalls and a spectacular view of Mount Rinjani have made this a gateway attraction for visitors.
It is in fact tourism that has driven Lombok forward in recent years.
Lombok’s highlands are verdant and lush, with the Gunung Rinjani National Park offering hiking paths for tourists interested in fresh mountain air and stunning views. The area is dominated by an enormous crater lake, with a surface area of 6.8 square miles that is one of the most popular hiker destinations. This lake, Segara Anak Toba, offers breath-taking views of nature and fresh water heated by volcanic activity beneath the surface.
The previously mentioned Gili Islands have become one of Lombok’s most popular tourism destinations. The three ‘Gilis’ (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air) are tranquil destinations that offer nature-based, remote island experiences. Cars are not allowed on these islands so locals rely on bicycles and horses as the main forms of transport. The diving areas and beaches there are renowned throughout Indonesia and continue to draw more international and domestic holiday-makers.
The numbers speak for themselves, as the province’s youthful governor, Muhammad Zainul Majdi, explains, “In 2008, NTB received 480,000 tourists, and then by 2013, we reached 1 million tourist arrivals. In the year of 2016, we have already achieved 2 million tourists. As we can see, the growth accelerates very quickly under the right conditions.”
Perhaps due to the success of Lombok’s domestic efforts, the island has been incorporated into the national tourism development strategy. Priority zones are being developed to demonstrate that the country of 17,000 islands has more than Bali to offer foreign visitors.
To this end a special economic zone has been established on the idyllic virgin island of Mandalika. With incentives to invest and tax breaks, it is expected that the island will quickly transform into a popular area for travelers as facilities are put in place.“Our Mandalika Special Economic Zone is one of the 10 main destinations for tourism development beyond Bali. Our geostrategic position in terms of sailing makes it possible to be developed as a global hub, especially in the northern area of Lombok”, says Governor Majdi.
In other Lombok investment news, Indonesia has initiated a strategy targeting the global halal tourism boom to increase tourist numbers from traditional visitor markets. Also known as ‘family-friendly’ tourism, halal tourism is aimed at creating conditions conducive to attracting visitors from the moderate Muslim communities. This entails upscaling the destination’s attractiveness by ensuring the availability of halal food, places of worship and accommodation catered to the needs of this group.
The primary source of these visitors include residents of affluent areas including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states. Services demand also exists from non-Muslim majority countries that have fast growing Muslim communities. These include the European Union, U.S., Canada, China and India.
Studies show that halal tourists usually travel with more family members, stay for longer periods and ultimately spend more money than other tourist groups. As a result, tourism branding campaigns for Lombok are adapting their approach and services to better suit this tourist niche.
Lombok’s historical links to Arab seafarers has given it a competitive advantage in this area. Many centuries ago, Yemeni traders established a community in the port of Ampenan, a coastal district of Mataram. This quarter still boasts architecture as well as historical and cultural heritage from this Yemeni period.
Underpinning Lombok investment growth are progressive local policies aimed at encouraging youth involvement in business. These policies are starting to bear fruits eight years on, according to Governor Majdi. “In 2008 we introduced our program called ‘100,000 Wirausaha Baru’ (100,000 New Entrepreneurs). The backbone of this program is our youth and we aim to empower the young generations of NTB through its implementation. I believe that NTB’s economic structure can be strengthened not only in the agriculture sector, but also in the entrepreneurial sector. Through this strengthening we can create sustainable growth through micro and small-medium enterprises”.
On top of grassroots economic empowerment, Lombok is set to play a bigger role in the nation’s sea-based connectivity. Through developing port locations along the Lombok Strait it is possible to drastically cut down shipping costs and improve the movement of merchant marine vessels.
“Our President has declared creating the global maritime axis as one of his administration’s priorities, and of course we will contribute to do that. In fact, to achieve this global maritime axis, a key factor would be the utilization of Lombok Strait (Selat Lombok). Lombok Strait has several characteristics that Malaka Strait does not have,” says Governor Majdi.
These favorable conditions have created Lombok investment opportunities for business people interested in cashing in on Indonesia’s ever growing sea transport and logistics sector. Once such site exists in the island’s north. Plans are afoot to provide a number of fiscal advantages for investors and business partners in developing this potentially lucrative maritime hub.
As Governor Majdi explains, “We have a very good location for a potential port in Lombok called ‘Kayangan’. We have already started talking with the people there, so I believe the needs of land acquisition could be fulfilled. We will be preparing the regulations that will accommodate this plan now, and we are communicating with the central government to make the territory a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This aims to give incentives for investors who plan to build and develop the Kayangan area”.
Time will tell how NTB progresses in its goal to develop tourism, promote SME growth and become a key sub-regional maritime logistics hub. However the signs are positive and if recent achievements are anything to go by, this island may well be the next big investment destination for Eastern Indonesia.
Korean Air Flying To Lombok in July
Hundreds line up to buy tickets for Korean Airlines direct flights to Lombok scheduled to commence in July of 2017.
Date: Mon, July 3, 2017
Source: Jakarta Post
Chartered planes owned by Korean Air will begin flying to Lombok International Airport on July 29.
Seven planes will fly from Incheon Airport in Seoul, South Korea, between July and October, West Nusa Tenggara tourism agency head Lalu Mohammad Faozal said in Mataram on Monday.
“We have received a letter from the Korean Air management to inform us about a plan of the Airbus 330-200 plane to fly to Lombok on July 29,” Lalu told The Jakarta Post.
The letter was signed by Korean Air general manager of the Southeast Asia/Oceania route network center, passenger network and sales Sangwook Bae, Lalu said.
The seven flights are part of a pilot project that, if considered successful, might be followed up with the opening of regular flights by Korean Air from Incheon Airport to Lombok International Airport, he added.
The number of Korean tourists to Lombok increased in recent months, boosted by the television broadcast of a Korean drama in the country. Scenes of the show were filmed in Lombok and Gili Trawangan, also in West Nusa Tenggara.
The number of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian and Singaporean tourists to Lombok increased significantly in 2016, with Malaysian tourists comprising the largest number with 12,000 per month because of Air Asia’s decision to schedule flights three times a day from Kuala Lumpur to Lombok, Lalu said. (bbn)
Uber Lombok Makes Tourism Play
Uber Lombok pickup station featuring car and driver ready to transport Lombok tourists and other customers.
Date: June 21, 2017
Source: TravelMole.com
Uber Lombok expands its footprint east to Mataram on Indonesian holiday island of Lombok.
Tourist demand in Lombok is soaring and infrastructure is developing at a rapid pace as one of the Indonesia tourism ministry’s key destinations being promoted. As a result, Uber Indonesia has rolled out in the islands capital Mataram with the uberX and uberTrip services. Mataram, Lombok marks the 30th city and seventh island In Indonesia with Uber coverage, Uber Indonesia’s head of communications Dian Safitri told local media.
UberX is the point-to-point ride service for up to four passengers and uberTrip offers a tourist-friendly charter-like service of several hours, enabling visitors to enjoy island-wide private tours. The uberTrip service has seen high demand from tourists in neighbouring Bali.
It enters the market with support from local officials, Dian said. “We have communicated our presence here, and we are happy to get support from the government as stakeholders.” Uber is currently cooperating with the transport cooperative Trans Usaha Bersama to introduce the service which officially began last week.
The company plans to educate and promote more awareness of ride sharing in the local community, while boosting its pool of driver partners.
“We will focus on education and minimize waiting time for passengers, because we hope to be part of the transportation ecosystem and develop tourism here,” said John Colombo, head of public policy and government affairs.
New 100 MW Lombok Power Plant
An agreement was signed Friday to build a new power plant in Lombok, West Nusa Tengarra. The agreement between Indonesian firm Rekayasa Industry & Polish engineering and construction contractor Rafako will significantly increase electricity generation on the Island of Lombok.
Date: June 14, 2017
Source: Jakarta Globe
Indonesian firm Rekayasa Industry & Polish construction contractor Rafako, signed a partnership agreement Friday to build new Lombok power plant.
The firms plan to build a 2 x 50 megawatt power plant for Indonesian state-owned electricity company PLN, in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.
The Rafako-Rekin partnership is expected to increase PLN’s power generation experience. This is in line with Rafako’s vision to connect Indonesia to the world and to help Indonesia meet its projected economic growth target, the companies said in a joint statement on Tuesday.
“We have long felt that our experience and partnership with Indonesia’s Rekin will give us more opportunities to participate in the building of the Indonesian infrastructure at a competitive price,” Rafako’s president and chief executive, Agnieszka Wasilewska, said in the statement.
She added that the project will comply with technical standards set in the European Union in terms of conventional power generation and will also use environmentally-friendly technology and processes.
“At the same time, we will empower the Indonesian construction industry and connect producers and users of power with guaranteed outstanding parts and supplies,” she said.
The signing of the partnership agreement took place last Friday in Szczecin, Poland, witnessed by Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan and Poland’s Minister of Maritime and Inland Navigation Marek Grobarczyk.
Rafako, a subsidiary of the PBG Group, was established in 1949 and has been a leader in the power generation industry since.
Lombok Investment Optimism Strong
Lombok Investor optimism is at an all-time high. The luxury resort sector is leading the pack as demand for luxury and high-end properties outstrips supply on Lombok Island.
Date: Lombok, June 12, 2017
Source: TTG Asia.com
Lombok investment optimism underlined the recent Tourism Development Forum, with a huge increase in international air arrivals and upscale resort demand outstripping supply in 2016.
Just under 100,000 international arrivals were reported by the Statistics Indonesia Bureau at Lombok International Airport in 2016, up 29 per cent, but the upscale resort segment saw 10 per cent supply growth outpaced by an 18 per cent increase in demand. In Lombok investment news the increase in upscale demand (23 per cent) was reported continuing to exceed supply growth in the 1st quarter of 2017.
Current projections estimate competitive supply in Lombok would grow at double-digit rates over the next five years, largely spearheaded by the development in South Lombok and surrounding Gili Islands, in addition to the continued growth of North Lombok.
Ricky Baheramsjah, head of investment and marketing – Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation, said: “We are hoping to have over 1,500 room keys open and ready by 2020. We have so far secured or booked over 350ha of development projects for our partners which equates to over 60 per cent of our total inventory or buildable landbank available.”
Developments such as the Mandalika project in South Lombok are gaining traction, as Baheramsjah revealed that the Vinci Construction Grands Projects, in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank, has committed to bringing in a dual-branded hotel from the Middle East, Shaza and Mysk by Shaza.
Forum participants cite international airlift as the key laggard in bringing international arrivals to the island, but the overall sentiment was that increased air connectivity would follow imminent increases in rooms supply.
Soepit Bharata, head Lombok & Surabaya – Silkair, is optimistic about Lombok investment, having seen interest from international carriers in launching direct routes to the island and an increase in load factor on direct flights from Singapore.
However, infrastructural issues at Lombok International Airport, in terms of its ability to handle wide-bodied aircraft, are still a constraint, he added.
Korean Airlines Announces Lombok Flights
Korean Airlines in the sky as the airlines announces new direct flights to Lombok
Date: June 2, 2017
Source: IndonesiaExpat.biz
Korean Airlines flying direct to Lombok!
South Korean carrier Korean Air is set to host charter flights between South Korea and Lombok International Airport, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), in July and August.
“Korean Air will launch seven chartered flights,” Lombok International Airport (LIA) General Manager I Gusti Ngurah Ardita sad in Mataram District, the capital of NTB, on Monday, May 29, as reported by Antara News.
Ardita said the airline, based in Gonghang-dong, Gangseo-gu in Seoul, will arrive at the Lombok International Airport from July 29 until the end of August.
“We certainly expect that with this charter flight, it can open a fixed route for Korean – Lombok flights,” Ardita noted during the meeting with Park Kee Hyun, Korean Air Regional Manager of Indonesia and Bae Sang-wook, General Manager of SouthEast Asia/Oceania Route Network Centre Passenger Network & Sales.
The arrival of Korean Air in Lombok follows a meeting held in April, Ardita added. Korean Air, airport operator Angkasa Pura, the regional government and the Tourism Board of West Nusa Tenggara teamed up to ease the move.
West Nusa Tenggara Governor TGH Muhammad Zainul Majdi said a visit by South Korea’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Cho Tai Young, and his wife, Cho Gye Young, from South Korea to Lombok via a chartered flight could become a regular flight.
Direct flights could help boost tourism, in line with the government’s hopes of attracting 20 million foreign tourists by 2019. The goal is to make the archipelago a world-class tourism destination – including Lombok Island.
Motocross Circuit Boosts Lombok Tourism
The Lombok International Airport Motocross and Grasstrack Circuit – aimed at increasing the number of Lombok visitors and ramping up its local tourism attractions. While Lombok already has cultural tourism, marine tourism and culinary tourism, the local government is hoping to develop the Lombok Sports Tourism sector as another facet of the island’s tourism industry.
Date: April 21, 2017
Source:
With rapid development in Lombok sports tourism infrastructure and hype in general, Lombok is capturing the attention of both local and foreign tourists.
According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, Lombok attracted 2.2 million visitors in 2015 and the number has increased to more than 3 million visitors in 2016.
The local government aims to keep increasing the number of visitors to Lombok by ramping up its local tourism attractions. Lombok already has cultural tourism, marine tourism and culinary tourism. However, the island still doesn’t has infrastructure for sport tourism. The local government is hoping to develop this segment on the island.
In order to bring the plan to reality, PT Angkasa Pura I will soon improve its existing motocross course near Lombok International Airport so that it is up to international standards.
“We will remodel the existing circuit. Now we are working on the structure and development in order to get the certificate which will allow us to hold a world championship event,” said General Manager of Lombok International Airport Igusti Ngurah Ardita.
The motocross circuit project has been in the pipeline for six months already, and is slated to be carried out by a state-owned company and the local government. The construction of the track – which will be 1,200 meters long and 810 meters wide – will be divided into four phases, with a targeted completion date scheduled for an unspecified time in 2018.
The February 19, 2017 “Jambore Otomotif IMI NTB 2017” event at the Lombok International Airport Motocross and Grasstrack Circuit is part of the island’s effort to bolster Lombok Sports Tourism
The first section of the project is already finished. It launched on February 19, 2017, at the ‘Jambore Otomotif IMI NTB 2017’ event. This first section of the circuit is called “Lombok International Airport Motocross and Grasstrack Circuit”.
Ardita also stated that her party is now cooperating with Ikatan Motor Indonesia (Indonesian Motor Association) to transform the dream of a world-class motocross championship on Lombok into a reality. Because of this, the existing circuit still needs to be brought up to international standards.
“We still need various facilities and improvements in order to meet the international standards,” said Ardita, adding that the development team prepared Rp.205 billion (US$15.4 million) to execute the facility improvement.
“With new sport tourism infrastructure, we hope the track can be an alternative option for tourists, as well as increase the number of visitors to Lombok,” said Ardita.
More Lombok Tourists For New Airport
Tourists line up at new Lombok International Airport (BIL) as state-owned airport operator Angkasa Pura aims to book Rp 3.5 billion (US$262,500) in revenue in 2017 through expansion projects in a bid to attract more tourists. The airport operator has set aside Rp 205 billion between 2016 and 2017 to improve the airport’s infrastructure, including an expansion of the apron, the construction of more gardens and airport lounges.
Date: April 20, 2017
Source: Jakarta Post
Additional expenditures by Lombok airport operator Angakasa Pura targets goal of more Lombok tourists.
After ending up in the red last year, state-owned airport operator Angkasa Pura I (AP I), which manages Lombok International Airport (aka “Bandara International Airport” or “BIL), aims to book Rp 3.5 billion (US$262,500) in revenue in 2017 through vast expansion projects in a bid to attract more tourists.
The airport operator has set aside Rp 205 billion between 2016 and 2017 to improve the airport’s infrastructure, including an expansion of the apron, the construction of more gardens and airport lounges.“We have a great opportunity to expand, as we have 553 hectares of land: twice as much as Bali [airport],” AP I Lombok general manager I Gusti Ngurah Ardita said on Thursday, adding that the airport only used 50 percent of the available land at present.
Lombok-Jeddah Route Opening Planned
According to its General Manager, I Gusti Ngurah Ardita, state-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Pura says BIL is exploring opportunities to open a Lombok-Jeddah route to serve the 5,000 Hajj pilgrims annually flying to Saudi Arabia.
Date: 20 April, 2017
Source: Entempo.com
State-owned airport operator PT Angkasa Pura I Lombok International Airport said that the company is exploring opportunities for Lombok-Jeddah route opening.
Angkasa Pura general manager, I Gusti Ngurah Ardita says the aim is to facilitate hajj pilgrims to fly to Saudi Arabia. “We are now collecting data to assist the airlines,” Ardita said at Lombok International Airport, West Nusa Tenggara, April 20, 2017.
Ardita said that Lombok serves 5,000 pilgrims in a single umrah period. At present, the company is validating the data with several airlines, such as Lion Air and Garuda Indonesia.
According to Ardita, the talks with the airlines are running well. If an agreement is reached, Garuda and Lion Air will serve umrah flights from Lombok.
Ardita said that Garuda plans to open Lombok-Surabaya-Jeddah route, whereas Lion Air will open Lombok-Solo-Jeddah. “To optimize Lombok’s umrah potential.”
Ngurah Ardita added that volume of hajj passenger traffic in Lombok is quite high at an average of 11 flight groups. The figure covers the period between 2012 and 2016.
Tour De Lombok Mandalika
Bike riders competing in the Tour de Lombok Mandalika cycling competition – a combination tourism event/race and showcase of the natural beauty of Lombok. The race is divided into 4 stages: Mataram City to Kuta Beach in Central Lombok (126 km); Bangsal Port to Senaru village in North Lombok (113 km); Kuta Beach to Sembalun, East Lombok (115 km) and; a 112 km circuit race in the heart of Mataram City.
Date: 13 Apr 2017
Source: Indonesia.travel
The Race Is On at the Tour de Lombok Mandalika cycling competition
Further reverberating the captivating beauty of Lombok Island in West Nusa Tenggara Province, the Tour de Lombok Mandalika will take place on 13th to 16th April 2017. Combining fierce cycling competition with the beautiful natural splendor of Lombok, this truly promises to be an exciting sports cum tourism event.
The race will be divided into 4 stages. The 1st stage will take riders from Mataram City, capital city of West Nusa Tenggara Province to Kuta Beach in Central Lombok over a distance of 126 km. The 2nd stage will start from the Bangsal Port to Senaru village in North Lombok covering the distance of 113 km. While the 3rd stage covers 115 km from Kuta Beach in Central Lombok to Sembalun in East Lombok. And the 4th and final stage will be a 112 km circuit race right in the heart of Mataram City. The circuit race during the final stage will consist of 10 laps in which laps 3,6, and 9 feature sprint tracks. Besides cycling through some attractive scenery of Lombok, racers will have to ride over some extreme challenges that include the steep ascending track from Sembalun all the way up to the foot of Mount Rinjani .
Competing for the total cash prize of IDR800 Million, the Tour de Lombok Mandalika will see fierce competition among the 17 cycling teams consisting of 17 international teams and 5 Indonesia teams. Among these are cyclists and cycling teams from Europe, China, Malaysia, Australia, Kuwait, Laos, United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Singapore and Iran..
Head of the Tourism Office of West Nusa Tenggara Province, Lalo Faozal explained that the event is aimed to push the promotion of the captivating natural and cultural, culinary and shopping attractions of Lombok to the entire world. He projects that the Tour de Lombok Mandalika will not only be a one-time event, but will continue to be held regularly as an annual event.
“Riders will be presented with some of the most fabulous views and appeals of the island. We, therefore, hope that racers will return again and again to Lombok not only to participate in next year’s competition but also to enjoy themselves with their loved ones as tourists to Wonderful Lombok,” said Lalo Faozal.
Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Tourism Minister, Arief Yahya commented that international-scale sports tourism events can give direct impact and high media value for Lombok in particular and Indonesia in general. “The Tour de Lombok Mandalika can boost the special interest market including in recreational sports. As riders take on the challenging race track, they can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of white sand beaches and crystal blue seas, lush forests, as well as green hills and mountains. Complemented with more than adequate facilities, the Tour de Lombok Mandalika is expected to attract more tourists to Lombok who will stay longer and explore further the many attractions of the island,” said Minister Arief Yahya.
With divine beaches, the looming Mount Rinjani and spectacular marine life to discover, the island of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara has no shortage of attractions both in and out of the water. It’s little wonder then that Lombok is the most popular destination in West Nusa Tenggara. Already professional surfers love to ride the massive breaks along Lombok’s south coast. Do challenge yourself with a trek up steep volcanic peaks. Hire a bike and cycle through lush evergreen rice paddies. Whichever way you choose to spend your time you won’t be disappointed with the spectacular natural beauty displayed here.
There are daily flights between Bali and Jakarta to the Lombok International Airport situated at Tanah Awu, in Central Lombok District. The airport is located some 30 km from Mataram, capital city of West Nusa Tenggara.
Rp6 Trillion For Mandalika
A development agreement for integrated tourism projects in the special economic zone (KEK) of the Mandalika Resort development project in Lombok NTB was signed by Vinci Construction Grands Projects and ITDC in front of Indonesia President Joko Widodo and French President Francois Hollande. The development agreement is reported to include building several hotels and a Moto GP circuit at Mandalika.
Date: April 1, 2017
Source: Antara News
France Investing Rp6 Trillion in Mandalika as French firm Vinci Construction and ITDC sign investment agreement worth US$500 million for seven Mandalika Resort hotels and a Moto GP circuit .
Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Resources Luhut Panjaitan said a French state company Vinci Construction Grands Projects has signed a cooperation agreement with the state owned PT Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) on development of integrated tourism in the special economic zone (KEK) of Mandalika in the regency of Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.
“The agreement was signed by Vinci Construction Grands Projets and ITDC in front of President Joko Widodo and French President Francois Hollande,” Luhut said here on Saturday.
Rion-Antirion Bridge crossing the Gulf of Corinth in Greece by French firm Vinci Construction is the longest suspended road span yet achieved on this type of bridge, at 2.2 meters of roadway hanging from four towers.
The French President visited the country earlier this week.
Luhut said under the agreement the French state company would build hotels and Moto GP circuit at Mandalika, which is owned by state owned PT ITDC. The project will occupy a 120 hectare plot of land in a location that would be the next Nusa Dua, the world famous beach resort area in Bali designed and built by ITDC .
ITDC President Abdulbar Mansoer said the French company would invest Rp6 trillion in projects of seven hotels and Moto GP circuit in Mandalika.
The fund would also be used to build a convention hall to facilitate MICE tourists, he added. He said the construction of the projects is expected to take two years for completion in 2019.
New Four Star Mandalika Hotel
Developer PT Elmar Mitra Perkasa expects to invest US$11.19 million on its new four star Mandalika Hotel
Hotel Date: January 20, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
The Mandalika Resorts special economic zone (KEK) in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), is set to host a new four star Mandalika hotel in the next two years.
Initiated by PT Elmar Mitra Perkasa, the 200-room and 10-villa property named X2 Mandalika Hotel will be built on a 3.2-hectare plot of land.
“The prospect of this project is very promising, thus we are very interested and serious in our investment of Rp 150 billion (US$11.19 million),” said the company’s director Teddy Yusaldi during a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony with the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) in Central Lombok, NTB, on Friday.
The hotel is located on the west coast of Kuta Beach and will be equipped with a beach sports facility.
PT Elmar Mitra Perkasa is reportedly the fifth company to have made an investment in the hotel industry in the Mandalika KEK. Pullman, Club Med and Royal Tulip are among the hotels currently soon to commence construction in the area.
ITDC president director Abdulbar M. Mansoer said Mandalika KEK expected to have at least 1000 rooms on offer by 2019.
Mandalika Lombok Cycling Race
22 countries with over 100 riders are competing in the Madalika Lombok cycling race “”Tour de Lombok Mandalika”. The bike rider’s countries of origin include Indonesia, the Netherlands, Germany, Thailand, Australia, Spain, Japan, France, Korea, Malaysia, Italy and China. Head of Tourism for Lombok NTB Lalu Moh Faozal said “together with team entourages the number of racers and team member could exceed 1,000 people”.
Date: April 2, 2017
Source: en.netal.news
Hundreds of cyclists from 22 countries are planning to participate in the Mandalika Lombok Cycling Race to be held on April 13-16, 2017.
Head of Tourism Department of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Lalu Moh Faozal said this Mandalika Tour is the official agenda of the Executive Board of the Indonesian Cycling Federation (ISSI) and obtains recommendation of 2.2 category from the Union Cycliste Internationale.
“In total there are 22 countries with over hundred riders,” said Faozal as quoted by Antara, Sunday (4/2/2017).
The countries of origin of the bicycle racers, said Faozal, are including Indonesia, the Netherlands, Germany, Thailand, Australia, Spain, Japan, France, Korea, Malaysia, Italy and China.
“If plus entourage, racers and team it could be more than 1,000 people,” he said.
He explained that the route of the Tour de Lombok Mandalika consists of four stages, the first stage is Mataram City-Kuta, Central Lombok Tengah along 126 km.
Bangsal Port-Senaru is across 113 km in North Lombok Regency (KLU). Then, Kuta in Central Lombok Regency to Sembalun in East Lombok Regency reaches 115 km and stage IV in Mataram City is 112 km or 10 rounds ride, with a sprint in the third, sixth, and ninth lane.
“Especially Mataram City, it is the sprint race track,” he said.
Meanwhile, Representative of ISSI Dadang said the racers will go through the flat roads and uphill. Of the four stages to be passed by the racers, the heaviest ones are in stage three from Kuta, Central Lombok towards Sembalun, East Lombok.
Total prize offered to the winners reaches IDR800 million. In addition to prize money racer also gets charter every time reaches finish line and is entitled to wear the yellow jersey as the winner.
Mandalika Resort MotoGP Circuit
An agreement between France’s Vinci Construction Projects and the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) to build a world-class MotoGP racing track at the new Mandalika Resort project in Kuta, Lombok NTB has been signed.
Date: April 1, 2017
Source: bertia.baca.co.id
Indonesia MotoGP lovers will soon watch the racers and classmates of Valentino Rossi or Jorge Lorenzo racing at the Mandalika Resorts MotoGP Circuit Lombok.
This circuit is a part of the greater plan of PT Development Tourism Indonesia (ITDC) to make the Mandalika project a world class tourist destination.
This circuit, according to Coordinating Minister Luhut, is planned to be built in concert with French investor Vincy. The ITDC chief said there are nearly Rp 6 trillion in contributions that will soon be made by the French investors to make the hotels and the Moto GP circuit.
Rendering with information on proposed new MotoGP racing track to be built at Mandalika Resort project in Kuta, Lombok
Certainly, already signed by the president, “Coordinating Minister Luhut stated that the agreemeent is already signed by president Jokowi and he answered questions from journalistsabout the project.
To the Governor of NTB and Coordinating Minister Luhut advised that resolution of land issues still needs to be resolved. In addition, he pledged that numerous improvements to infrastructure, education and other projects to benefit locals are in the works. “We do not want to just finish the Mandalika project. We want KEK (Mandalika) employees in the region and later their sons and daughters, to benefit from the project. “Lombok Island is so rich it must be enjoyed equally by Lombok’s own people, not just foreigners and tourists “said Coordinating Minister Luhut.
Coordinating Minister Luhut gave examples of local products that can be sold to the restaurant and hospitality industries and stated that “much produce and farm products can be supplied by area and sold at the Mandalika project, for example vegetable, eggs, chicken, etc. and he explained further that the Mandalika SEZ development is the implementation of a strategic development of the Indonesian government designed to encourage equitable growth.
“Our strategy is no longer “Jawacentric” but is “Indonesiacentric” and growth outside Java is important. “Whether this country does well or not is completely dependent upon the choices and decisions we make today,” concluded Luhut.
Australia Offered Lombok Airport Management
In an effort to turn the operation profitable, Indonesia state owned Angkasa Pura, operator of the Lombok International Airport (Bandara Internasional Indonesia or “BIL”) Tanak Awu near Praya on the Island of Lombok has offered an airport operator in Australia the chance to jointly operate Lombok airport. The Lombok International Airport.
Date: March 9, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi says Indonesian government will offer an Australian company joint Lombok Airport management for Bandara International Lombok.
The offer came after a meeting between Budi and Australian Regional Development, Regional Communications, and Local Government and Territories Minister Hon Fiona Nash on Thursday.
“We are offering an airport operator in Australia the chance to jointly operate Lombok airport,” Budi said. Currently, the Lombok International Airport is managed by state airport operator Angkasa Pura (AP) I.
The airport has not yet been able to turn a profit and as such the minister hopes that the cooperation will increase traffic and spur further development of the airport.
The meeting also highlighted possible cooperation between the two countries in tourism and aviation, especially in remote and border areas.
The development of airports in border areas such as Rote Island and emerging tourist destination Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, were also discussed during the meeting.
Indonesia has invited private companies to take part in developing airports because of limited funds in the state budget.
Australia mentioned the Christmas Island as well as an area in Brisbane as possible locations for collaboration in area development.
Fiona also welcomed the business talks between the two countries. “Certainly there are various ways to extend the opportunities in front of us” she said.
Kuta’s Mandalika Resort Opening in 2019
Architectural rendering of a portion of the Mandalika Resort as seen from above A’an Bay. Image from Arch Case Architects website.
Date: February 27, 2017
Source: CEI Asia
Kuta’s $3 billion mega project, the Mandalika Resort opening on Bali’s sister island Lombok, is set to commence operation in 2019
At first, construction of the gargantuan 10,500-room project with MICE facilities for 7,000 pax (people) set on a long lonely beach on Lombok’s south coast was hampered by the very thing that made the proposition attractive – its remoteness and the corresponding lack of roads, electricity and communications; essentially, all critical infrastructure.
Heavy equipment installing Mandalika Resort signage at Kuta Beach
In 2007, the Indonesian Government sold Mandalika to the Dubai Development Corporation for US$240 million. But when the GFC hit a year later and funding dried up, the Emiratis were forced to sell Mandalika back to the Indonesians at a 50 per cent discount.
In 2011, the project was resuscitated by the opening an international airport 20 minutes drive to the north. Now under the stewardship of Indonesian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the group that turned the Nusa Dua land reclamation project into a world-class leisure and convention destination, ground has finally been broken at Mandalika.
American water specialists EBD Bauer is completing a desalination plant. A 211-room Pullman hotel is taking shape, construction of a Club Med is about to start, plans to construct a Moto GP circuit are underway, while properties managed by Marriott and Intercontinental are rumored to commence construction this year.
ITDC employees pose in front of sign for coming Moto GP racing track as developers seek new investment in the Mandalika Resort opening.
“With these announcements and activity on the ground, somewhere in between 1,000 and 1,500 hotel keys should be available by 2019,” says Chris Berney of NTB Capital, general manager of NTB Capital, a brokerage firm that advises foreigners how to invest confidently in Lombok. “So a lot has happened, with good quality access roads through most of the south coast now and electricity being rolled out, too.”
The Million-Dollar Question
So should planners looking for an exciting new integrated resort with headline-grabbing facilities like a water park, theme park, equestrian park and a 3,000-hectare nature reserve consider Mandalika for major events as early as 2019?
Looking at the question from a historical perspective, one should think not. Construction delays are part-and-parcel of doing business in Indonesia; Lombok’s international airport is a copybook example. The opening was delayed by years because of problems with site security, theft of construction materials, land disputes and compensation claims from locals. When it finally opened, it still looked like a construction site.
But according to Jason Lim, CEO of Smailing Tour DMC in Bali, an inbound operator that’s brought groups of up to 8,000 delegates to Indonesia, things are changing very fast and for the better under President Jokowi, who visited the site last year.
“I know there have been delays in the past, but ever since Jokowi took over, we can feel a real change and strong push towards tourism,” he says. “And if you look at the team behind Mandalika – ITDC – they are very successful and professional. They have the experience, the expertise, connections, strong government support and the ability to attract good hotel partners. But the next big step,” Lim adds, “will be bringing in people on International flights.”
Mandalika Resort commences construction of new Pullman Hotel located next to existing Novotel Kuta, Lombok Hotel. Several other upscale hotels are slated for Kuta, Lombok’s new Mandalika mega resort.
Last year, only around 85,000 of the half million foreigners who visited Lombok arrived via the international airport. That’s because only two foreign airlines – AirAsia and SilkAir – fly directly to Lombok. However Garuda recently confirmed it would launch direct flights from Lombok to Guangzhou, and Emirates is expected to start flying from Dubai to Lombok later this year. Jetstar Australia and Air China will probably follow.
“The airport in Lombok has still not reached the level where it can handle a few thousand passengers at one time,” Lim says. “So I don’t think they will get big groups in 2019. I predict smaller groups as big as 200 or 300 people will visit to start with. It will be a slow burn. But we’re very optimistic.”
Lombok Bau Nyale Festival of “Sea Worm” Princess
The Bau Nyale Festival is an age-old tradition that is closely linked to the legend of the beautiful Princess Mandalika. The locals believe that the Nyale (sea worms) are sacred creatures that bring prosperity to those who honor them. The belief is based on the legend which tells of Mandalika throwing herself into the sea to bring peace among her many competing suitors, only to re-emerge each year as Nyale, from the waters of Seger Beach in Kuta, Lombok
Date: February 20, 2017
Source: BBC News
The Lombok Bau Nyale Festival, meaning “catching sea worms” in the local Sasak language, happens each year in February.
The locals believe, that the Nyale (worms) are not just sea worms, but are sacred creatures that bring prosperity to those who honor them, or misfortune to those who ignore them. The belief is based on the legend that there once lived a beautiful princess named Mandalika with whom so many princes fell in love with that all were eager to wed her. Competing to win her, they created an upheaval throughout the island. Seeing this, the princess was saddened and longed for peace in the land. To end the chaos, Princess Mandalika threw herself into the sea. Her people tried to rescue her body, but found instead an abundance of sea worms, known today as Nyale. Thus, Nyale are believed to be the reincarnation of Princess Mandalika.
Every year as evening approaches thousands of people gather at Seger Beach to hunt the legendary sea worms, which the legend says are the reincarnation of the beautiful Princess Mandalika.
To this day the Nyale appear once a year on the beach, and are considered as the once beautiful princess who pays a visit to her people. The traditional Sasak communities celebrate this festival each February, according to their traditional calendar. Crowds begin arriving along the coastline of Kuta village in Central Lombok, Indonesia before dawn. Equipped with traditional fishing tools, they catch sea worms along the coast line at Seger Beach.
Before the main event last week, locals also held a traditional music contest and cultural parade. “It is a celebration for us who live here, for Princess Mandalika. We are so glad that a lot of people come to the beach, catching ‘Nyale’,” said one of the locals, Inaq Senah.
Many locals believe that the multi-colored sea worms are the reincarnation of a princess who drowned herself in the sea. Legend has it that Princess Mandalika was so beautiful that princes from every corner of the country wanted to marry her, causing so much strife that Mandalika threw herself into the ocean to bring peace to the island.
The sea worms come in different colours – green, yellowish, and brown – and look shiny under the light. After catching the sea worms, the locals will cook them by smoking them over a BBQ or steaming them, and then eat them. They believe the worms are a symbol of fertility and prosperity.
Thousands of Lombok Cruise Passengers in 2017
The Lembar seaport on the west side of the island is gearing up for the thousands of Lombok cruise passengers scheduled to visit the island on 24 cruise ships in 2017.
Date: February 15, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
The tourism industry in Lombok is looking forward to 24 cruise ships, bringing thousands of Lombok cruise passengers to Lombok’s Lembar Seaport.
The shipping companies behind the 24 vessels had confirmed the planned stops in Lombok, NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu Muhammad Faozal said, adding that the number marked an increase from 18 layovers last year.
“The passengers will enjoy a one-day trip to a number of destinations in Lombok,” he said on Friday.
Around 50,000 passengers will visit Lombok on the cruise ships, mostly from European countries and Singapore.
The local administration will present special performances for the tourists such as traditional music and dances at the NTB State Museum and the NTB Cultural Park in Mataram.
Baharuddin, the general manager of state owned port operator PT Pelindo III, which operates the Lembar seaport, said three cruise ships had entered the region so far this year.
The latest one, Dutch-flagged Volendam, arrived on Tuesday, carrying 1,968 people, including 596 crew members.
“The ship moored from Tuesday morning until night, so the passengers had time to explore a number of destinations in Lombok,” he said.
The visits would not only boost the local economy but also help promote tourism destinations in Lombok, he added.
At least 15 buses and 25 cars from local travel agencies and transportation companies took tourists to several destinations, like Sekotong, Kuta Central Lombok, Mataram Mall, Senggigi, the Sukarare woven production center, Banyu Mulek and Darmada Park. Some also went by boat to the beautiful islets Gili Nanggu, Gili Kedis and Gili Sudak.
International cruise ships usually pass Komodo Island in East Nusa Tenggara on their way to Lombok and then move on to Bali, before heading back to international waters.
The province has enjoyed increasing hotel occupancy rates in Mataram and West Lombok following a month of intensive tourism promotion under the Lommok Sumbawa Great Sale 2017 camaign.
“Normally, the occupancy rate is 40 to 50 percent. Thanks to the Great Sale event, it increased to 80 to 85 percent,” Mataram Hotel Association (AHM) chairman Ernanda Agung said in a meeting on Friday.
The meeting revealed that the promotion, which lasted from Feb. 1 to 28, also boosted revenue at restaurants and souvenir shops in Lombok by 25 percent.
Lombok City Center Mall general manager Daniel B. Kristiawan said the Great Sale campaign had had a positive impact for vendors at the mall. The event had been of great help to lure visitors during the low season, he added.
The Great Sale, jointly conducted by the NTB Tourism Agency and private tourism organizations in NTB, is part of efforts to boost tourism in the province during the low season in February. It involves 189 business units offering a variety of discounts at hotels, restaurants, souvenir outlets and tourist packages from travel agencies.
24 Cruise Ships To Lombok in 2017
24 cruise ships have been confirmed to visit Lombok via Lembar Port during 2017. The passengers are expected to enjoy a one-day trip in several Lombok destinations, NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu Mohammad Faizal told The Jakarta Post on Friday in Mataram.
Date: February 11, 2017
Source: Jakarta Post
At least 24 cruise ships to visit Lombok’s Lembar Port in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), throughout 2017 – a 25% increase over last year’s 18 ships.
“24 cruise ships have been confirmed to visit Lombok via Lembar Port. The passengers are expected to enjoy a one-day trip in several Lombok destinations,” NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu Mohammad Faizal told The Jakarta Post on Friday in Mataram.
Lalu said the ships that largely originated from European countries and Singapore generally accommodated 3000 to 5000 passengers, which would mean the potential number of foreign tourist arrivals could reach more than 50,000 visitors.
Art and cultural performances have will entertain the tourists while visiting the destination. “Visitors will be greeted with traditional musical dances that we provide at the NTB National Museum and NTB Cultural Park in Mataram,” said Lalu.
State port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) II’s Lembar Port general manager Baharuddin said that Volendam cruise ship from the Netherlands had arrived at the port on Tuesday carrying a total of 1,968 passengers and crew.
“The ship docked in Lembar Port from Tuesday morning until night,” he said, adding that the company had welcomed the visitors with Gendang Beleg traditional music performances and local dances.
“Some visitors joined tours provided by travel agents, some others shopped on their own by taxi or charter vehicles,” said Baharuddin. Some of the popular routes visited by the tourists include Sekotong, Kuta Beach in Central Lombok, Mataram Mall, Senggigi, Sukarare weaving art center, Gili Nangu, Gili Kedis and Gili Sudak.
Baharuddin added that cruise ships that visited Lombok usually passed through Komodo Island, Flores, Lombok and then headed to Bali. (kes)
Lombok Lures Young Malaysians
In 2016, the average age of the 750,000 Lombok traveling Malaysians was 40 years old. Now the younger generation is the focus of a new campaign by the Indonesia Tourism Development Company to lure Malaysians to the azure seas, white sand beaches, and growing tourism facilities Lombok has to offer.
Date: January 31, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
Lombok Traveling Malaysians to be lured to West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) as administration cooperates with a Malaysian university to attract younger visitors.
The administration will sign a memorandum of understanding with the Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) in Kuala Lumpur in March. “UPSI will promote Lombok tourism in Malaysia. We hope the cooperation will spark interest among Malaysian students to visit Lombok,” said NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu Mohammad Faozal on Monday.
“Most Malaysian tourists are aged above 40. Now we want to lure the younger generation,” Faozal said. Some 750,000 Malaysian tourists visited Lombok last year, the highest number compared to other nationalities. Over 1.5 million international tourists visited Lombok last year, mostly from Europe, Australia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East, according to the NTB Tourism Agency.
UPSI dean of music and arts Zaharul Lailiddin bin Sairon said most young Malaysian tourists visited Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surakarta in Central Java and Bandung in West Java.“We will start with training [for the students] in Lombok in March as an initial step [to help promote Lombok tourism],” Zaharul said.
West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) administration will cooperate with a Malaysian university to attract young Malaysians to visit Lombok.
Telkomsel Installs Mandalika 4G LTE Network
Telkomsel Installs Mandalika 4G LTE Network in effort to boost tourism infrastructure
Date: January 29, 2017
Source: netralnews.com
Telkomsel installs Mandalika 4G LTE network to bolster tourism in the Mandalika Resort special economic zone (SEZ) in Lombok
In Lombok investment news, Sukardi Silalahi, Director of Network at Telkomsel Indonesia, said the installation of the latest cellular technology network is part of the company’s network optimizing effort to accommodate the high demand from tourists that actively use communications services while in Mandalika.
The network installment is aimed at supporting the development of Mandalika as one of Indonesia’s 10 priority tourism destinations.
“The presence of high quality telecommunications infrastructure is significantly important in supporting the tourism potential of an area. Therefore, we have hosted quality 4G LTE network to facilitate tourists that want to share and spread Mandalika’s exoticism to the entire world,” Sukardi said, as quoted by Antara.
He expects the availability of 4G LTE service to attract more tourists to visit Mandalika and enjoy the beauty of the area’s beaches. “The efforts we have made is a real manifestation of Telkomsel’s support in developing Indonesia’s tourism industry,” Sukardi said.
Sukardi said that Telkomsel’s 4G LTE service’s scope to Mandalika’s populated areas has almost reached 100%, including areas such as the beaches of Kuta, Serenting, Tanjung Aan, Keluew, and Gerupuk.
Telkomsel’s 4G LTE service has covered a total of more than 70% of Lombok’s populated areas, including Mataram and the tourism area of Senggigi in West Lombok.
He continued that the growth of data users in Lombok area that had doubled last year showed high public demand for quality data service.
“We hope the quality communications service we bring to Lombok and surrounding areas can be greatly used to increase public productivity to accelerate economic growth in the area,” Sukardi said.
Sukardi also said the company optimized its networks in 11 other main destination areas in Indonesia, including Borobudur (Central Java), Labuan Bajo (East Nusa Tenggara), Bromo-Tengger, Semeru (East Java) Kepulauan Seribu (Jakarta), Toba (North Sumatera), Wakatobi (Southeast Sulawesi), Tanjung Lesung (Banten), and Raja Ampat (West Papua), among others.
Telkomsel’s network optimizing includes the construction of new 4G base transceiver station (BTS) units, upgrading of existing BTS units to 4G BTS units, increasing network transmission capacity, and expanding network reach.
The company also routinely monitors the quality of its network, and even operates compact mobile base station units to strengthen the network during the hosting of national and international events in tourism sites.
Another New Mandalika Hotel Coming!
Lombok’s Kuta Beach as seen from above. The beach’s west coast is set to host the X2, a new Mandalika Hotel. Initiated by PT Elmar Mitra Perkasa, the 200-room and 10-villa property will be equipped with a beach sports facility.
Date: January 20, 2017
Source: The Jakarta Post
Another four-star new Mandalika hotel coming soon to Kuta mega-resort project.
The Mandalika special economic zone (KEK) in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), is set to host a four-star hotel in the next two years. Initiated by PT Elmar Mitra Perkasa, the 200-room and 10-villa property named X2 Mandalika Hotel will be built on a 3.2-hectare plot of land.
“The prospect of this project is very promising, thus we are very interested and serious in our investment of Rp 150 billion [US$11.19 million],” said the company’s director Teddy Yusaldi during a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony with the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) in Central Lombok, NTB, on Friday.
The hotel is located on the west coast of Kuta Beach and will be equipped with a beach sports facility.
PT Elmar Mitra Perkasa is reportedly the fifth company to have made an investment in the hotel industry in the Mandalika KEK. Pullman, Med Club and Royal Tulip are among the hotels currently under construction in the area.
ITDC president director Abdulbar M. Mansoer said Mandalika KEK expected to have at least 1000 rooms on offer by 2019.
25 Percent More Indonesia Tourists in 2017?
Indonesia Travel – the official website of Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry quotes the Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya, as setting a target of 15 million foreign tourists for the Nation in 2017 – an increase of 25% over 2016.
Date: January 2, 2017
Source: BaliDiscovery.com
Indonesia Sets Ambitious Goal of 25 percent More Indonesia Tourists – 15 Million total foreign tourists for 2017.
Indonesia.travel – the official website of Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry quotes the Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya, setting a target of 15 million foreign tourists for the Nation in 2017 – an increase of 25% over a still-to-be-confirmed 12 million visitors for all of 2016.
National tourism arrivals through the end of October totaled 9.413 million – a number equivalent to year-on-year growth of 9.54%. While that rate of growth applied to total foreign tourist arrivals in 2015 of 10.4 million results in only 11.4 million tourists, Minister Yahya insists that the total number of foreign, visitors when the total forml count is made, will equal 12 million.
The Ministry claims that the tourism sector contributed 11% of the Nation’s GDP in 2016, creating 11.8 million jobs.
“These significant achievements have strengthened Indonesia’s resolve to aim even higher by raising our goals and targets for 2017 to 15 million international arrivals – or a growth rate of 25% – and on to 20 million arrivals in 2019”, said Minister Yahya.
Target: 15 Million 2017 Indonesia Tourists!
Two of the 15 million 2017 Indonesia Tourists – posing with colorful parrots
Date: December 30, 2016
Source: Indonesia Travel
Lombok Investement News: Minister of Tourism Arief Yahya targets 15 million 2017 Indonesia tourists and underscores action plans for 2017.
According to official data issued by the Indonesian Central Bureau of Statistics, international tourist arrivals to Indonesia from January through October 2016 reached 9,413,814, being a growth of 9.54% year on year.
But since total yearly arrivals can be confirmed only in January next year, Minister Arief Yahya estimated that based on monitoring actual trends, arrivals in November can be estimated to reach 1.3 million and in December 1.5 million arrivals. This means that Indonesia can confidently confirm to have reached the target of 12 million in 2016, being a phenomenal growth of 20% in one year, up from 10.4 million in 2015.
Thus, In 2016, Indonesia’s Tourism Sector will have contributed 11% to the country’s GDP from total tourists spending in Indonesia at Rp. 172 trillion, thereby providing direct, indirect or related tourism jobs for 11.8 million people and further stimulating Lombok investment.
“These significant achievements have strengthened Indonesia’s resolve to aim even higher by raising our goals and targets for 2017 to 15 million international arrivals – or a growth rate of 25% -, and on to 20 million arrivals in 2019”, said Minister Arief Yahya.
In next year’s 2017 plan, the government has stipulated that tourism must increase international arrivals to 15 million, increasing 25% over this year’s achievements, providing a 13% share to national GDP, and creating 12 million jobs. These achievements should push Indonesia’s competitive index , from the present rank at 50, up to rank no. 40 in the WEF World Competitive Tourism Index. And this amidst global tourism growth of 4.4% and ASEAN tourism growth of 5.1%.
“Remember, that exceptional results can only be achieved through extraordinary actions’’ reminded Minister Yahya to all. And, therefore, this requires all of us involved to follow what he called the 3S in Tourism corporate culture, being: Solid cooperation and coordination, speedy actions at all levels, and a spread throughout the archipelago. We must all work in unison and with speed so that tourism’s impact on Lombok investment will grow commensurately and equally significant”.
To achieve these goals, the Ministry will place emphasis on three key priority plans, starting from the first quarter next year, these are: Go Digital, Air Connectivity, and the construction of 20,000 Homestays in Tourism Villages across the archipelago.
These actions will take into consideration capacities of Indonesia’s three main gateways of Bali, Jakarta and the Riau Islands, as well as that of the top 10 priority destinations that have been earmarked for accelerated development, which are named the New Bali destinations. These include: Lake Toba
in North Sumatra, Bangka-Belitung in the southern part of Sumatra, Central Java and Yogyakarta that centralize on Borobudur temple the Thousand Islands facing Jakarta, the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru mountains area in East Java, the beach area in Banten, the Mandalika Beach area in Lombok Labuan Bajo, springboard to the Komodo islands in Flores, Wakatobi in Southeast Sulawesi, and Morotai in North Maluku.
Go Digital Campaign
In the Go Digital tourism plan, this has already been started in September 2016 with the creation of the ITX (Indonesia Tourism Exchange) digital market place platform offered to all ecotourism businesses and other activities where buyers meet sellers. We expect ITX to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2017 when all tourism businesses will have gone digital, said the Minister.
And, if two years ago we concentrated on Branding the Indonesia Destination, last year we focused on Advertising, this third year we will shift to emphasizing Sales.
A Digital “War Room” has already been set up in the Ministry to enable us to follow and receive inputs on all developments and feedback from throughout the country on tourism traffic to shortfalls in services. .
Named M-17, this room has 16 LED touch screens that monitor tourism ‘s 4 main activities, namely; international marketing, domestic marketing traffic and statistics big data, and inputs such as complaints, criticisms, suggestions and testimonials, be they positive or negative.
Air Connectivity
As regards connectivity, to achieve the expected goals, air connectivity from major world markets and on to main and secondary destinations is of utmost importance. This is because over 75% of tourists to Indonesia arrive by air, although breakthrough regulations have also been made to facilitate the entry of yachts and the lifting of cabotage for cruise ships. Today, border destinations are also upgraded and events held on the borders with Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste and with Singapore and Malaysia, to attract more border crossing tourists.
Air capacity-wise Indonesia aims to increase air seat capacity to 4 million. Although this is the purview of the Ministry of Transportation, nonetheless, the Tourism Ministry is already collaborating closely with the Transport Ministry, domestic and international Airlines, Airnavigation and Airport Authorities, upgrading and streamlining facilities for the fast and convenient arrival and departure of passengers.
Not only are more airlines urged to fly to Indonesia, – Indonesia’s LCC carriers are already flying direct from China to Manado, Makassar and Bintan, with Australian Jetstar to add flights to , and Garuda Indonesia flying Mumbai-Jakarta – yet more airports are now operating 24 hours daily to allow international flights to land at any time of the day or night.
Indonesia tourist praying in morning at Borobudur Buddhist Temple in Yogyakarta Java, Indonesia. Candi Borobudur is located in Magelang Regency in Java, Indonesia and is now well known as a tourist hotspot rather than a religious place of practice. It is mainly known for its giant stupas on the top levels of the temple and thousands of Buddha statues.
Multiple Homestays with local architecture and ambience
Furthermore, to receive the expected surge of tourists not only in already well known destinations of Jakarta, Bali and Batam, but since tourists can now fly directly to their choice destinations, the government plans to build Homestays to make available sufficient accommodation facilities almost instantly. In the first quarter of 2017 over 1,000 homestays will be built in the country’s top 10 new tourist destinations, said Arief Yahya.
These are around Lake Toba (in North Sumatra); at Tanjung Kelayang Beach (Bangka Belitung); Tanjung Lesung Beach (Banten); Kepulauan Seribu – The Thousand Islands (Jakarta); by the magnificent Borobudur temple in (Central Java), Mt. Bromo Tengger Semeru mountains (in East Java); at Mandalika Beach (Lombok, West Nusatenggara); Labuan Bajo (Flores– jumping off point to the Komodo islands in the East Nusatenggara province); on Wakatobi islands famed as the underwater paradise (in Southeast Sulawesi); and on Morotai island of World War II fame (in Maluku). 100 homestays will be built at each destination. These houses have been designed such that they will blend beautifully with each of the surrounding landscapes utilizing local architecture.
With this strategy in place that are immediately implemented, Indonesia is confident that the target in the huge surge of tourist arrivals to 15 million next year can be met.
New Lombok Tourist Beaches
Nambung Beach near Sekotong in West Lombok, with its spectacular salt water wave waterfall, is one of many new lombok beaches being promoted for tourism
Date: December 27, 2016
Source: Tempo.Co
New Lombok tourist beaches in West Nusa Tenggara being developed by the Tourism and Culture Agency.
The development of additional beaches for tourists are planned for the areas between Central Lombok and West Lombok as part of a new program to increase tourism on the Island of Lombok.
Mawun beach, Selong Belanak beach, Semeti beach, and Nambung beach are some of the beaches that can be found in the area. In West Lombok, there are Sekotong beach and Mekaki beach.
“We are developing new beaches in the area,” said Head of NTB Tourism and Culture Agency Moh Faozalon Friday. In 2017, the agency receives Rp41.5 billion from NTB regional budget to develop tourism sector.
“We want to meet the target of having 4 million tourists visit the province in 2018,” Faozal said.
In 2016, it is estimated that at least 3 million tourists visit the province and until September 2016, at least 2.5 million tourists visiting the province.
Lombok No. 2 Malaysian Travel Destination
The Northen Lights (Aurora Borealis) lighting up the skies over Reykjavik is the number one travel destination for Malaysians.
Date: December 27, 2016
Source: Travel Trends
Malaysian travellers itching to explore as Lombok becomes a top Malaysian Travel Destination
Lombok is “No 2 of top 10 destinations for Malaysian travelers” according to Skyscanner 2017 Travel Trends data. With the opening of the international airport in Praya and travellers looking for somewhere more exotic than Bali, Lombok is booming.
Party animals and divers congregate in the heavenly Gili Islands off the island’s north coast while surfers head to the dramatic beaches in the south around Kuta with their crashing surf, traditional villages and rustic, laid-back atmosphere. Challenge yourself by climbing towering Mount Rinjani for spectacular sunrise views over Lombok, or take a load off and chill under the palms at Gili Nanggu for a slice of hassle-free tropical paradise.
Sunset image of camping on Mount Rinjan, Lombok. Attractions such as Rinjani, the No 2 travel destination for Malaysians, are ever more accessible from the new international airport in Praya
According to Skyscanner 2017 Travel Trends, after Reykjavik and Lombok, the eight next most popular travel destinations for Malaysians, in order of popularity, are are follows: 3. Sapporo (Japan);4. Kota Bharu (Malaysia);5. Kuala Terengganu (Malaysia); 6. Alor Setar (Malaysia);7. Casablanca (Morocco); 8. Tokyo (Japan);9. Kota Kinabalu (Borneo) and 10. Perth (Australia)
New Lombok Cruise Ship Port
Indonesia Ministry of Tourism, Taufan Rahmadi, said that the Gili Mas Port of Lombok, is targeted to operate in May 2019, will become the largest port area in Eastern Indonesia. This port will be built specifically for giant cruise ships that bring the foreign tourists from various parts of the world to enjoy the beauty of tourism on the island of Lombok.
Date: December 22, 2016
Source: AsiaOne Asia News
Leading Lombok investment news today is the announcement of a new Lombok Cruise Ship Port to be built at Gili Mas near Lembar, in southwest Lombok.
State seaport operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia III (Pelindo III) plans to construct Gilimas seaport in Lembar, West Lombok, to serve cruise ships, an executive has said.
Pelindo III’s Lembar chapter general manager Baharuddin said the foundation stone-laying ceremony to mark the start of construction is scheduled for Dec. 22, 2016
“Initially, President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo was scheduled to officiate the project. But, due to the President’s tight schedule in December, State-Owned Enterprises Minister Rini Soemarno and Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi will be attending the groundbreaking ceremony,” Baharuddin was quoted saying on Monday.
The Gilimas seaport will occupy 100 hectares plot of land as part of the extension of the Lembar seaport. “We are targeting that by the second half of 2018, cruise ships will be able to dock at the wharf,” Baharuddin said.
The construction of the seaport will run in four stages with an estimated cost of Rp 1.2 trillion (US$89.50 million), including land acquisition.
Team 10 member of the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism, Taufan Rahmadi, said that Gili Port of Lombok, which will become the largest port area in Eastern Indonesia, is targeted to operate in May 2019. Rahmadi further explained that this new seaport facility will be specifically designed and constructed to all giant cruise ships which bring the foreign tourists from various parts of the world to enjoy the beauty of tourism on the island of Lombok.
In the meeting, said Taufan, GM Pelindo III advised that from 2015 to 1st semester 2017, the number of cruise ship arrivals is 51 Call. The number of arrivals is relatively small, due to the still high operational costs.
“The main cause is the lack of supporting facilities for cruise ships, this is a challenge that is being overcome by the Pelindo III,” he said.
Taufan confirmed that the reclamation process of 11 hectares of Gili Mas land is currently underway.The construction of Gili Mas Pier, which was done in stages, has now been approved for a 440 meter simultaneous dock construction.
Rp1.9 Trillion State Seaport Expansion
State-owned seaport operator ASDP Indonesia Ferry has allocated US$140.5 million to finance expansion, new vessel construction and port improvement for Gili Mas, Lembar port in Lombok and 34 other Indonesia seaports.
Date: December 9, 2016
Source: The Jakarta Post
State Seaport expansion funded for Lombok’s Gili Mas Lembar Seaport and 35 others.
State-owned seaport operator ASDP Indonesia Ferry is allocating Rp 1.9 trillion (US$140.5 million) to finance its expansion plans next year. The firm will spend Rp 577 billion of that amount, about 30 percent, to have vessels of various sizes built locally. Acting ASDP president director Faik Fahmi said that his firm would add 16 ferries to its fleet next year, half of which would be arranged through commercial procurement and half through public procurement. “These sixteen ferries will add to the 139 ships we already have,” Faik said in Surabaya during the recent launch of a new route from Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya to Lembar Port in Lombok.
Apart from that, ASDP will also use the earmarked funds to improve some of its 35 ports.Faik said that his firm would carry out a study to find out which ports most required renovations to enhance passenger facilities. Currently, ASDP operates 195 ASDP crossing routes covering an overall distance of about 40,230 kilometers. Of them, 143 are new passenger routes and the rest are commercial ones.Out of the total, 53 routes are each more than 160 kilometers long. “Starting from early December, the operation of this new Surabaya-Lombok route will bring our [long-distance] routes to total 54,” Faik said.ASDP said it hopes that the twice-weekly Surabaya-Lombok route would become a major revenue-earner as the route is nine hours shorter than the alternatives.
Current land and ferry transportation from East Java’s capital to Lombok normally takes up to 30 hours. This compares to 21 hours by a non-stop ferry that can accommodate 1,000 passengers and 100 trucks. Faik further said that the firm is considering opening a special route to carry trucks. The truck-based transportation business is expanding by 6 to 7 percent each year, making it a large market to tap into. By using a ferry that has an operational cost of Rp 230 million for each trip, the burden on roads from Surabaya to Denpasar and Lombok, which are used by about 300 vehicles per week, could be reduced.
“Currently, a trip from Tanjung Perak to Lembar by road takes a long time and is expensive because they have to cross the strait twice. However, direct transportation by sea will lower the fees,” Budi said. Cheaper logistics rates, which proponents claim would decrease sharply with the new route, are based on the ASDP calculation that 150 of the 1,500 trucks that travel each day from Java to Bali would continue their journeys to Lombok. Meanwhile, the secretary of the Transportation Ministry’s directorate general for land transportation, Hindro Surahmat, said that the government would provide a subsidy to ASDP on special routes, including the Surabaya-Lombok route.
“We would also review other routes, such as the Jakarta-Semarang-Surabaya,” he said, adding that Surabaya-Lembar would nevertheless be the priority for assessment. As ASDP plays a key role in transportation in the eastern part of the archipelago, the government expects the company to enhance the quality of its ferry services there, including to outer islands like from the Natuna Islands in Riau Islands to Papua.
Indonesia Tourism Blooms
Indonesia tourism is getting a big boost from the government’s robust new “Wonderful Indonesia” campaign. The objective to reach 20 million tourists by 2019 is equally ambitious, with this year’s target at 12 million and last year’s total 9.73 million. To support these targets, the Asian Development Bank agreed to lend Indonesia US$10 billion over the next five years.
Date: October 20, 2016
Source: GlobalRisksInsights
‘Wonderful Indonesia’ campaign shows the country in a new light… reveals a still-untapped economic opportunity for Indonesia Tourism
Indonesia tourism got another shot in the arm as the government’s ‘Wonderful Indonesia’ campaign (which began in 2011) transforms Indonesian tourism into a vibrant, lucrative, and rapidly growing industry. Alongside national ‘gems’ like the ancient Borobudur Temple, the divers’ haven of Raja Ampat, and the Komodo National Park, a host of new destinations are becoming established – among them Bintan, Maluku, and Lombok.
Tourism is responsible for creating close to 10 million jobs, and last year the government allocated a further Rp.1.3 trillion (US$98.4 million) to promote tourism. That year it contributed 9.6% of total GDP – behind Indonesia’s top earners of oil, gas, coal, and palm oil.
Minister of Tourism Arief Yahya announced that in 2019, tourism would be Indonesia’s biggest foreign exchange earner. By that time, he wants tourism’s contribution to national GDP to have doubled, bringing in US$24 billion annually.
The objective to reach 20 million tourists by 2019 is equally ambitious. This year’s target is 12 million; the total last year was 9.73 million. To support these targets, the Asian Development Bank agreed to lend Indonesia US$10 billion over the next five years.
Business tourism lags behind leisure tourism: in 2014, total business tourists (3.16 million) were half that of leisure tourists (6.27 million). Events like the 39th PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) Travel Mart, recently hosted in Greater Jakarta, reflect the potential for business tourism. That event attracted 1358 delegates from 63 countries, and the tourism ministry must work with businesses to bring more events like this to Indonesia in the future.
Business tourism could facilitate the expansion of the hospitality industries, particularly high-class hotels and restaurants (and other venues suitable for conferences and exhibitions). The government recently altered its ‘Negative Investment List’ such that foreign investors have greater access to (and ownership of) strategic businesses – including in the tourism and hospitality industries. Substantial cash injections should boost economic growth, creating more jobs and facilitating more creative enterprise, to ensure Indonesia remains globally competitive.
Travel outside of Bali remains challenging, and the infrastructure is in need of a significant revamp. The government has responded to this increased demand by announcing plans to expand current airports as well as construct new ones. This is an essential strategy: after the upgrade of Labuan Bajo airport, Komodo Island, home of the endangered Komodo dragon, is able to accommodate 1.5 million tourists annually (before, the number was 150,000).
Lombok and Halal tourism
Lombok, in West Nusa Tenggara, is also in the midst of a significant transformation. Mandalika Resort in Lombok is a vast complex being developed by the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the state-owned company responsible for the Nusa Dua complex in Bali.
The government has allocated Rp.1.8 trillion (US$138.57 million) to develop Mandalika. Mandalika is now a special economic zone (SEZ), which means investors will be granted tax and fiscal incentives, as well as other business-related benefits; a factor which will undoubtedly encourage the proliferation of hotels, restaurants and bars over the next few years, as well as better and stronger infrastructure. According to the ITDC, it will be ready by 2018.
However, Lombok is becoming known for a different reason. At the 2015 World Halal Travel Summit and Exhibition in Abu Dhabi, Lombok was recognised as the World’s Best Halal Tourism Destination and Halal Honeymoon Destination.
Halal tourism is a growing sector, given the increasing number of Muslim tourists, and as the world’s most populous Muslim country Indonesia is strongly positioned to exploit that industry. The government has officially listed West Nusa Tenggara, West Sumatra and Aceh as Halal tourism destinations.
The government announced it would be targeting more Arab tourists, particularly from Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is the largest tourism contributor to Indonesia from the Middle East, with 147,074 visits in 2014. It was recently added to the list of countries for which visa entry is no longer required. The government also signed agreements with key Gulf airlines, including Qatar Airways and Emirates Airlines, to increase the frequency of direct flights to the archipelago.
Given Indonesia’s determined promotion of tourism, economic opportunity is rife and investors should be aware.
Lombok Airport Expansion
Angkasa Pura, the state airport operator for Bandara International Lombok Airport (“BIL”) plans to spend almost $USD 6 million to expand the Lombok International Airport in West Nusa Tenggara. The expansion of the runway and apron will add parking for 2 additional jets at the airport.
Date: October 13, 2016
Source: Jakarta Post
Ankasa Pura budgets Rp 78 Billion for Lombok Airport expansion.
State airport operator PT Angkasa Pura (AP) I has allocated more than Rp 78 billion (US$5.99 million) to expand Lombok International Airport in West Nusa Tenggara, an executive said on Wednesday.
“At the moment, there is a tender process for the construction project,” PT Angkasa Pura I LIA general manager I Gusti Ngurah Ardita said Wednesday.
The expansion of the apron will add two more aircraft parking sites, bringing the number of parking sites to 12.
“So, it will be easier for the airport to open new routes in the future,” Ardita said.
Currently, the airport is communicating with some Australian airlines regarding the possibility of opening international flights from Lombok.
Ardita said the apron expansion was made to anticipate a growing number of passengers and as a follow up of the appointment of the Lombok airport as a haj embarkation point.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
Indonesia Foreign Property Ownership Laws Change
Minimum prices for expat property ownership under the Right To Use (“Hak Paki”) ownership title under Indonesia law were changed recently by the Indonesia government.
Minimum prices revised for Indonesia foreign property ownership.
Source: Indonesia Investments
The Indonesian government revised the price mechanism for property that can be bought by expats under the “right-of-use” category. Through Agrarian and Spatial Planning Affairs/National Land Agency (BPN) Regulation No. 29/2016 on Procedures for the Granting, Relinquishment and Assignment of Ownership Rights over Residential Homes or Housing by Foreigners Resident in Indonesia, it changed a couple of the minimum prices set on property (divided by region and the type of property).
In 2015 the Indonesian government decided to allow foreigners to “own” luxurious apartments and landed houses under the extended “right of use” category (as opposed to the much stronger “right of ownership” category). However, the government set minimum property prices – and rather high ones – in order to protect the Indonesian people in the property market as there were concerns that foreigners would buy a high amount of houses and apartments if they would be allowed to buy the cheaper property units.
The latest revision sets higher minimum prices for expats who want to buy landed houses in Yogyakarta, Bali and North Sumatra. Meanwhile, the minimum price for apartments in Banten has also been raised. Only the minimum price for the purchase (by expats) of apartments in Jakarta has been reduced in a bid to attract property purchases.
Table showing new minimum values for houses and apartments purchased by expatriot buyers under Hak Pakai (Right To Use) Title in nine “zones” of Indonesia
Mandalika Water Plant on Track
Enterprises Minister Rini Soemarno (third left) monitors the development of clean water installations at the Mandalika. NTB administration regional secretary Rosiadi H Sayuti (second right), Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) president director Abdulbar M. Mansoer (second left), ITDC development director Edwin Darmasetiawan (left) and ITDC finance director Jatmiko K.Santosa (right) accompanied the minister on the visit.(Antara/Ahmad Subaidi)
Date: October 9, 2016
Source: Jakarta Post
New Mandalika Water Plant reverse-osmosis desalinization installation is proceeding on schedule
In anticipation of the growing water needs of the huge Mandalika Resort project, a new Clean Water Plant is now under construction in Kuta, Lombok. The new plant will supply water to both the Mandalika Resort mega-resort and the local community.
In other new, ownership claims by local residents to 135 hectares of land inside the Mandalika special economic zone (KEK) in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), pose a challenge to investment in the designated tourism area.
“The 135 ha of land those people have laid claims to and that have not yet been cleared by developers are spread over 31 points, most of them strategic locations along coastlines. This is one of the obstacles to investment the development director of Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), Edwin Darmasetiawan, said on Thursday.
ITDC, a state-owned enterprise, handles the development of the KEK Mandalika, which covers an area of 1,171 ha.
Edwin stressed that ITDC, since 2008, held legal evidence as the holder of a land-use permit for the entire 1,171-ha area, in the form of a capital injection decree issued by the Finance Ministry.
He said ITDC had coordinated with the NTB administration to solve the problem. A team set up by the administration would collect data on land people had claimed. A string of meetings had brought together representatives of NTB and the Central Lombok administrations and the people.
“They agreed solutions on land disputes in several points during the meetings but no solution has been achieved yet in around 13 points, most of which are located in potential investment locations.” Edwin said ITDC and the NTB administration had sent a letter on the problem to State-owned Enterprises Minister Rini Soemarno.[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
Lombok Sporting Events Tourism
After the successful 2016 GNFY Indonesia bicycle marathon on Sunday, Lombok’s potential as an international sports tourism destination has been elevated said NTB tourism and cultural agency head Lalu Mohammad Faozal. 600 cyclists, including 200 foreigners and 400 Indonesians from 31 countries participated in the event.
Date: October 3, 2016
Source: Jakarta Post
More Lombok sporting events tourism coming to the Island.
Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is considered to have potential as an international sports tourism destination following the successful Grand Fondo New York (GNFY) Indonesia 2016 bicycle marathon on Sunday. “In addition to being a home to many tourist attractions, Lombok and NTB in general have very developed infrastructure, particularly for bicycle races,” NTB tourism and cultural agency head Lalu Mohammad Faozal told The Jakarta Post during the race in Senggigi, West Lombok, on Sunday. Around 600 cyclists from 31 countries participated in the event, comprising around 200 foreigners and 400 Indonesians.
From the starting point at the Santosa Senggigi Hotel, the cyclists passed along the 80- and 180-kilometer routes, which included some tourist attractions in West Lombok, Central Lombok and North Lombok, before heading back to the hotel, also the location of the race’s finish line. (Read also: Bintan set to become sports tourism destination)Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo celebrates his success after finishing the race on Oct. 2 in West Lombok.(JP/Panca Nugraha)Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo and NTB Governor M. Zainul Majdi also joined the race. Ganjar, who participated in the 180-kilometer marathon, even successfully finished among the top five with 4.5 hours.
“The track is spectacular. The road is smooth and there are many interesting attractions to see; it has very good tourism potential for NTB,” said Ganjar.The event serves as the world’s first cycle marathon of the GFNY series in Indonesia. Other hosts for this year’s GFNY are Mont Ventoux in France, Mexico City in Mexico, Germany, Italy, Argentina, Cozumel in Mexico, Uruguay and Colombia. The peak of the event will be held in New York, the US, on May 21, 2017.
Higher Indonesia Visitor Counts Pledged
Bali, Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya, says that government officials cannot sleep until they boost Indonesia visitor numbers to equal or exceed those of neighboring countries like Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia.
Date: October 2, 2016
Source: Bali News
Bali Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya says higher Indonesia visitor counts must be achieved.
Speaking in Bali, Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya, has declared that the government, tourism professionals and the nation’s younger generation must not pause to rest until the number of tourism visitors to Indonesia exceed totals achieved by Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.
The Minister’s remarks were made at Bali’s Tourism Academy (STP) in Nusa Dua, Bali on Thursday, September 29, 2016.
As reported in Lombok investment news, Yahya told hundreds of STP graduates that “no one should sleep” before Indonesia welcomes more tourist visitors than Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
“You cannot sleep before you defeat Malaysian and Thailand. Indonesian tourism has been asleep for too long. Now, we must awake and not slumber again until we defeat Malaysia and Thailand. If we do sleep, we will be left far behind, even though Indonesia is a great country with great potential,” said Yahya.
The Minister continued to say that the younger generation needs to understand Indonesia’s weaknesses in the tourism industry. Armed with the knowledge of our own deficiencies, said Yahya, Indonesia must also study the weaknesses of its “enemies and competitors.”
The Minister outlined Indonesia’s main weakness in the field of tourism as a lack of promotion in comparison to its neighboring competitors.
While Indonesia is struggling to achieve 12 million foreign tourist arrivals, neighboring competitors have achieved much larger totals such as Malaysia (27 million), Thailand (25 million) and Singapore (20 million).
The Minister lamented that Thailand is promoting itself as “the Bali of Asia.” Adding, “this is very painful to Indonesia.”
The Minister said Indonesia earns US$10 billion from tourism, with Bali contributing 40% of this amount. Meanwhile, Malaysia earns US$ 30 billion from its 27 million visitors.
Yahya explained that his Ministry is now promoting the branding of “Wonderful Indonesia” around the world.
Target: 25% Indonesia Tourism Growth
Speaking at the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Tourism Ministry Deputy for International Tourism Development, I Gede Pitana, is optimistic that the 12 million foreign tourists target 2016 will be achieved with 3 million more (15 million) in 2017.
Date: October 2, 2016
Source: Bali News
Indonesia Tourism Minister targets 25% Indonesia tourism growth and 15 million foreign Indonesia tourists in 2017
The Deputy for International Tourism Development of the Tourism Ministry, I Gde Pitana, says he is optimistic that the 12 million foreign tourists targeted for 2016 will be achieved and a further 3 million tourists will come in 2017.
Pitana speaking at the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) on Tuesday, September 27, 2106, said: “The performance of arriving foreign tourists to Indonesia achieved 6.23 million by the end of July. This total, represents 53% or half of the target of 12 million foreign tourist arrivals for this year. We are certain that by year’s end the target will be achieved. We wish to increase a further 3 million tourists so that in 2017 we will welcome 15 million tourists.”
Pitana said that in order to achieve the targeted goals for foreign tourist arrivals the government has a number of strategies in place, including an international branding campaign for Indonesian tourism.
The Ministry is also supporting a number of festivals across the country and conducting familiarization trips for journalist and blogger visits to increase editorial coverage of Indonesia.
The Ministry is also organizing participation at major travel shows abroad to promote national tourism. The Ministry has already confirmed their participation at a number of major travel shows including: JATA (Jepang), SATTE (India), ITB Berlin (Germany) and ATM Dubai (UAW).[/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]
Mandalika Resort Ready in 2018
Indonesia Tourism Development Coporation (ITDC) says that the huge Mandalika mega-resort will be open for business in 2018. Many think this is an overly optimistic goal for a project so massive in scale.
Date: September 30, 2016
Source: The Jakarta Post
The Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) said Thursday that the the mega Mandalika Resort ready in 2018 to welcome tourists by the end of 2018.
The development of the 1,200-hectare integrated resort complex started earlier this year with the construction of infrastructure and the breaking of ground for the first hotel.
“We are aiming to complete the construction of 1,200 hotel rooms in Mandalika within the next two years, while speeding up the development of infrastructure in the area at the same time. We will start the operation of this tourist complex by the end of 2018,” said ITDC operational director Ngurah Wirawan.
Developed and managed by the ITDC, Mandalika is expected to replicate the success of Bali’s luxurious tourist complex in Nusa Dua that is operated by the state-owned company. During this early phase of development, four international chain hotels will be built: a Pullman, a Club Med, a Royal Tulip and a Marriott.
Ngurah said during the construction phase, the company planned to organize some events that involved outdoor activities, including a car rally and aero sports competitions like skydiving and paragliding, with the aim of promoting Mandalika as a new attractive destination.
The government has allocated Rp 1.8 trillion (US$138.57 million) to develop Mandalika, which is one of the 10 areas in the archipelago that have been prioritized for tourism development. The government has also granted the area a special economic zone status, which enables investors to get tax and fiscal incentives, as well as other benefits that would make it easier for them to do business.
Garuda Eyes Larger Lombok Jets
Garuda intends to fly larger Jets to Lombok, like this Boeing 737 NG with 162 seats, in order to service increasing inter-island flight demand.
Date: September 25, 2016
Source: Bali News
Garuda Indonesia considers larger Lombok jets on Bali to Lombok runs to accommodate growing passenger demand.
Quoted by the State News Agency Antara, Dasep M. Suanda, manager for Garuda in West Nusa Tenggara, on Saturday, September 24, 2016, said, “If it is indeed possible, we will replace the ATR aircraft with a capacity of 70 passengers with larger plans that can carry up to 200 passengers.”
The Garuda manager said that from an operational and economic standpoint, it is better to increase seat capacity than to add new flight frequencies. This is particularly the case at airports such as Bali where new flight slots are in high demand.
Dasep explained that Garuda Indonesia flies between Lombok and Bali three times a day using ATR aircraft with 70 seats and Boeing 737 NG with 162 seats.
Garuda has achieved an average occupancy of 72% over the period January – August 2016.
Adding a cautionary note, Dasep added: “Adding more seats is still only a plan. We must first examine the demand. If the demand is strong, we will increase. If demand is low, why add seats?”
The deputy-governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), H Muhammad Amin, has voice his desire for the national flag carrier to support tourism by adding new destination and new domestic air routes in his province. Amin bemoaned the fact that Citilink has recently ceased flying from Bandung to Lombok, and for this reason, his hope is for new flight services to be commenced to NTB.
Accor’s Mandalika Pullman Hotel to Start; Sinarmas To Build $USD 658 Million Nuvasa Bay
Accor Hotels and Sinarmas Land both plan significant new investments in Indonesia. Accor will soon break ground for its new Lombok investment – the Pullman Hotel, located with the Mandalika Resort mega-development in Kuta, Lombok.
Date: December 16, 2015
Source: Deal Street Asia
Accor Hotels kicks off Lombok Pullman Hotel, Club Med to follow
The French hotel group AccorHotels held the groundbreaking ceremony for its new Lombokinvestment – the Pullman hotel at the Mandalika Resort, in Kuta (West Nusa Tenggara) Indonesia.
In addition, Sinarmas Land is to build their Nuvasa Bay Nusava Bay project which will occupy 228 hectares of land and follows two previous endeavors by Sinar Mas – Taman Duta Mas and Palm Springs Golf & Coutry Club, said a report in the Jakarta Post. Sinarmas Land controls two property developers listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), PT Bumi Serpong Damai Tbk (BSDE) and PT Duta Pertiwi Tbk (DUTI). “We will develop Nuvasa Bay for 15 years. Investment for the first phase is estimated to reach Rp 4 trillion for building 1,100 landed houses and 4,000 apartment units. The company is targeting to attract foreign and local buyers for its newest property, which will be developed in three stages over a seven-year, five-year, and three-year period respectively, the report added.
Lombok Halal Tourism Expansion
Indonesia “will focus its efforts to brand the Mandalika Resort as a Halal tourism destination by actively taking part in related annual international competitions” the Indonesia Ministry of Tourism, Riyanto said, adding that it will take part in the upcoming 2016 World Halal Tour Awards scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi in December.
Date: September 22, 2016
Source: IOL News
Indonesia Ministry of Tourism unveils plans to focus on Lombok Halal Tourism after winning the 2015 Halal Tour Destination Award competition. “We recorded a 50 percent tourist visit growth in Lombok since obtaining the award.”
Jakarta – The Indonesian government planned to further develop halaal tour, in a bid to woo foreign visitors as the country set a target of receiving 20 million tourists by 2019.
Halaal tour, or Muslim-friendly tour, was expected to contribute 5 million foreign tourist visits to Indonesia by 2019, Head of Halal Tour Acceleration Development Team at Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry Riyanto Sofyan said.
The government would further develop halaal tour branding by actively taking part in related annual international competitions, Riyanto said, adding that the ministry has selected several candidates to take part in the upcoming 2016 World Halal Tour Awards scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi in December this year
“The strategy to develop halaal tour was by focusing efforts to score victories in international competition. Only then it would further boost the branding and the good results can be seen shortly,” Riyanto told a press conference to announce winners of national halaal tour competition in various categories.
Part of the winners would be nominated to vie in the upcoming world class halaal tour competition in Abu Dhabi, he added.
Indonesia’s Lombok island in West Nusa Tenggara province won Halal Tour Destination Award from the same competition last year, Riyanto said, adding that since then significant tourist visit improvement was seen in Lombok.
“We recorded a 50 percent tourist visit growth in Lombok since obtaining the award,” Riyanto added. Even though halal tour was defined as Muslim-friendly tour destination, hospitality and accommodation, it also attracts conventional tourists as well, he added. According to Riyanto Halal tour promises significant business potentials as tourists identified to spend their vacation in halaal tour packages reached 120 million people worldwide with total spending of $142-billion last year.
With orchestrated efforts to develop its tourism sector, Indonesia expected to earn $24-billion from tourism by 2019.
The government would further develop halaal tour branding by actively taking part in related annual international competitions, Riyanto said, adding that the ministry has selected several candidates to take part in the upcoming 2016 World Halal Tour Awards scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi in December this year
“The strategy to develop halal tour was by focusing efforts to score victories in international competition. Only then it would further boost the branding and the good results can be seen shortly,” Riyanto told a press conference to announce winners of national halaal tour competition in various categories.
Indonesia’s Lombok island in West Nusa Tenggara province won Halal Tour Destination Award from the same competition last year, Riyanto said, adding that since then significant tourist visit improvement was seen in Lombok.
“We recorded a 50 percent tourist visit growth in Lombok since obtaining the award,” Riyanto added. Even though halal tour was defined as Muslim-friendly tour destination, hospitality and accommodation, it also attracts conventional tourists as well, he added. According to Riyanto Halal tour promises significant business potentials as tourists identified to spend their vacation in halaal tour packages reached 120 million people worldwide with total spending of $142-billion last year.
With orchestrated efforts to develop its tourism sector, Indonesia expected to earn $24-billion from tourism by 2019.
The Indonesian government plans to woo more Muslim visitors as it sets a target of receiving 20 million tourists by 2019.
Jakarta – The Indonesian government planned to further develop halaal tour, in a bid to woo foreign visitors as the country set a target of receiving 20 million tourists by 2019.
Halaal tour, or Muslim-friendly tour, was expected to contribute 5 million foreign tourist visits to Indonesia by 2019, Head of Halal Tour Acceleration Development Team at Indonesia’s Tourism Ministry Riyanto Sofyan said.
The government would further develop halaal tour branding by actively taking part in related annual international competitions, Riyanto said, adding that the ministry has selected several candidates to take part in the upcoming 2016 World Halal Tour Awards scheduled to be held in Abu Dhabi in December this year
“The strategy to develop halaal tour was by focusing efforts to score victories in international competition. Only then it would further boost the branding and the good results can be seen shortly,” Riyanto told a press conference to announce winners of national halaal tour competition in various categories.
Indonesia’s Lombok island in West Nusa Tenggara province won Halal Tour Destination Award from the same competition last year, Riyanto said, adding that since then significant tourist visit improvement was seen in Lombok.
“We recorded a 50 percent tourist visit growth in Lombok since obtaining the award,” Riyanto added. Even though halal tour was defined as Muslim-friendly tour destination, hospitality and accommodation, it also attracts conventional tourists as well, he added. According to Riyanto Halal tour promises significant business potentials as tourists identified to spend their vacation in halaal tour packages reached 120 million people worldwide with total spending of $142-billion last year.
With orchestrated efforts to develop its tourism sector, Indonesia expected to earn $24-billion from tourism by 2019.
Lombok Mandalika Halal Tourism
Groundbreaking ceremony of the Mandalika Grand Mosque in Central Lombok. Gearing up for construction, the state Enterprises Minister Rini Soemarno, State-owned tourism company PT Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) president director Abdulbar M. Mansoer and West Nusa Tenggara administration officials attend the groundbreaking ceremony in Kuta, Lombok.
Date: September 12, 2016
Source: The Jakarta Post
Economic Zone Expected to Boost Mandalika Halal Tourism
State-owned tourism company PT Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) president director Abdulbar M.Mansoer said the development of the Mandalika special economic zone (KEK), including its grand mosque, in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), would hopefully boost tourism in the province.
“For the Mandalika tourism area, this mosque is really strategic to support the halal tourism destination concept along with the NTB administration’s tourism program,” he said on the sidelines of the groundbreaking ceremony for the development of Mandalika Grand Mosque inside the KEK Mandalika complex on Saturday.
Abdulbar said the Mandalika Grand Mosque would cost an estimated Rp 28 billion (US$2.11 million) to build. The mosque would adopt the building model of the old Bayan Beleq mosque in North Lombok and have an environmentally friendly building concept, with a total visitor capacity of 2,000.
“This is part of our role to help preserve the culture and historic heritage of the Lombok people,” he said about the mosque, which is to be built on a five-hectare plot of land.
In 2015, the Mandalika special economic zone currently being built by ITDC on 1,175 hectares received Rp 250 billion from the government to start the development of basic infrastructure facilities inside the area.
Abdulbar said ITDC was currently developing a 11-kilometer road for access, a clean water treatment facility using seawater reverse osmosis technology to fulfill the water needs of Mandalika hotels in the future.
“We are also preparing 60 hectares of land for the development of a solar-powered electricity plant ” he said, adding that PLTS Mandalika would hopefully start operating in 2017.
Club Med Lombok Announced
Club Med announced plans to open their 350 room Club Med Lombok. Spanning over a 15 hectare site with 650 meters of ocean frontage, the refined “5 Trident Luxury Space” will offer dedicated concierge and personalized services for suite guests. The resort will feature restaurants serving international cuisine, bars serving free-flow drinks and alcoholic beverages, Kids’ Club facilities, MICE facilities, an over 50 activities within the resort.
Date: September 9, 2016 Source:
Club Med, the pioneer of the Premium All-Inclusive holiday concept, has announced plans to open Club Med Lombok, the third resort in Indonesia following Club Med Bali and Club Med Bintan Island.
Situated in the tranquil waters and abundant nature of Lombok, the new island resort offers families, couples, and corporate groups an exotic and eventful holiday experience filled with authentic and rich discoveries.
The announcement of the new property was made on Tuesday 6 September, with the CEO and President of Club Med, Mr Henri Giscard d’Estaing, flying into Club Med Bali to reveal the exciting news to selected guests and media.
Creating growth opportunities in Mandalika Lombok
Club Med expects to cultivate and drive a huge impact to the region with the opening of the brand new resort. “In present day, Club Med has received over 80,000 guests on an annual basis, from more than 30 nationalities to Club Med Bali and Bintan Island,” shared Mr. Henri Giscard d’Estaing, CEO of Club Med.
“We foresee Club Med Lombok to receive a high volume of international attention and clients, and raise global awareness for Lombok as a premium holiday destination. The opening of this resort will also directly create over 350 jobs locally, contributing to the growth of the tourism industry.”
Partnership with Indonesian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)
Working in partnership with ITDC, Club Med commits to managing and operating the upscale resort as part of a concentrated effort to bring in more visitors to Indonesia. Taking into account various qualities such as diverse and unique cultures, exceptional nature and a keen sense of hospitality, Indonesia’s tourism industry exhibits vast growth potential, having grown at an average of seven per cent per year since 2010 and targeted to surpass 10 million visitors in 2016.
Historically, Club Med has actively sought and developed resorts in then undiscovered gems, such as Cancun, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, and more.
Having worked with the government for 30 years since the launches of the first two resorts in Indonesia, Club Med is the first international operator to recognise the possibilities in Indonesian destinations.
The beautiful island of Lombok is part of a development plan, the Mandalika project, an initiative launched by the Indonesian government and ITDC to groom and cultivate the Mandalika into a new world class luxury ecotourism destination.
With over 40 years of experience in managing and developing a world-class tourism destination that is Nusa Dua, ITDC has already started delivering on the next prestigious development in the Mandalika with the aim of recreating the same global success that all the visitors are continuing to enjoy in Bali, Nusa Dua. The new destination will offer a unique experience that is different from other locations around the world. Located in the southern part of Lombok Island with more than 16 kilometres of sparkling white sandy beach, the Mandalika has been designed as an ecotourism destination from the offset, incorporating Clean Solar Cell Energy, Water Desalination Plants, and keeping over 51 per cent of the resort as an open ‘Green Space’, which will not only maintain and protect the natural beauty of the Mandalika scenery but also enhance the life and culture of the local people.
A “contemporary nature-inspired resort with a lively atmosphere”
Spanning over a preserved site of 15 hectares with 650 metres of pristine aquamarine waters with powdery white sand, the new Club Med Lombok offers guests a plethora of sea activities, such as snorkelling, surfing, diving and more.
Guests to the new eco-chic designed resort will be able to enjoy:
- 350 rooms across a wide range of categories for all types of travellers, from superior to suite,
- A refined 5 Trident Luxury Space offering dedicated concierge and personalised services for suite guests,
- Restaurants serving international cuisine or offering “a la carte” menus with unparalleled view of the ocean,
- Bars serving free-flow drinks and alcoholic beverages,
- Kids’ Club facilities and dedicated services for ages two to 12,
- MICE facilities for companies seeking a professional yet unconventional & exceptional retreat for their employees,
- And over 50 activities within the resort, including opportunities to discover the beauteous culture and nature of Lombok Island.
Highly accessible with direct flights to the newly constructed Lombok International Airport for international and domestic guests, Club Med Lombok is a mere 30-minute drive away.
Lombok is a well-preserved island located east of Bali with fine destinations in the south, such as Mandalika. Blessed with over 16 kilometres of stunning natural landscapes and the rich culture of Indonesia, it is the ideal retreat for weary city dwellers and worldly travellers who seek an escape from the hectic schedule of city life. Guests at Club Med Lombok can look forward to reclining on the serene shores, or immersing themselves into the traditions and ways of exotic Indonesia.
Club Med Lombok Opening in 2019:
Ribbon cutting ceremony finalizing the new Club Med Lombok development project at the Mandalika Resorts mega-development in Kuta, Lombok. Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (“ITDC”) and Club Med officials appeared together to memorialize their joint venture for the new luxury resort to be completed in 2019.
Date: September 7, 2016
Source: Club Med blog
Club Med Lombok to create growth opportunities at Lombok’s Mandalika Resorts Mega-Development
While Lombok investment news sources have previously indicated that the Club Med project was a go, the joint ITDC/Club Med ribbon cutting ceremony was the formal announcement that the upscale luxury resort was moving forward, with a planned opening in 2019. Club Med officials say they expects to cultivate and drive a huge impact to the region with the opening of the brand new Club Med Lombok resort. “In the present day, Club Med has received over 80,000 guests on an annual basis, from more than 30 nationalities to Club Med Bali and Bintan Island,” shared Mr. Henri Giscard d’Estaing, CEO of Club Med.
“We foresee Club Med Lombok to receiving a higher volume of international attention and clients, and raise global awareness for Lombok as a premium holiday destination. The opening of this resort will also directly create over 350 jobs locally, contributing to the growth of the tourism industry.”
Partnership with Indonesian Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)
Working in partnership with ITDC, Club Med commits to managing and operating the upscale resort as part of a concentrated effort to bring in more visitors to Lombok. Considering the diverse and unique cultures, exceptional nature and a keen sense of hospitality, Indonesia’s tourism industry exhibits vast growth potential, having grown at an average of 7% per year since 2010 and targeted to surpass 10 million visitors in 2016.
Historically, Club Med has actively sought and developed resorts in then undiscovered gems. Having worked with the government for 30 years since the launches of the first two resorts in Indonesia, Club Med is the first international operator to recognize the possibilities in Indonesian destinations.
The beautiful island of Lombok is part of a development plan, the Mandalika project, an initiative launched by the Indonesian government and ITDC to groom and cultivate the Mandalika into a new world class luxury ecotourism destination.
With over 40 years of experience in managing and developing a world-class tourism destination that is Nusa Dua, ITDC has already started delivering on the next prestigious development in the Mandalika with the aim of recreating the same global success that all the visitors are continuing to enjoy in Bali, Nusa Dua. The new destination will offer a unique experience that is different from other locations around the world. Located in the southern part of Lombok Island with more than 16 km of sparkling white sandy beach, the Mandalika has been designed as an ecotourism destination from the offset, incorporating Clean Solar Cell Energy, Water Desalination Plants, and keeping over 51% of the resort as an open ‘Green Space’, which will not only maintain and protect the natural beauty of the Mandalika scenery but also enhance greater Lombok investment and the life and culture of the local people.
Contemporary nature-inspired resort with lively atmosphere
Spanning over a preserved site of 15 hectares with 650 metres of pristine aquamarine waters with powdery white sand, the new Club Med Lombok offers guests a plethora of sea activities, such as snorkelling, surfing*, diving* and more. *at extra cost
Tanjung A’an Bay – the site of the new Club Med Lombok luxury resort is one of Lombok’s finest white sand beaches. The Club Med resort will front the beach area and offer 350 rooms, restaurants, bars, concierge services and over 50 activities for guests.
Guests to the new eco-chic designed resort will enjoy:
✔️ 350 rooms across a wide range of categories for all types of travelers, from superior to suite,
✔️ A refined 5 Trident Luxury Space offering dedicated concierge and personalized services for suite guests,
✔️ Restaurants serving international cuisine or offering “a la carte” menus with unparalleled view of the ocean,
✔️ Bars serving free-flow drinks and alcoholic beverages,
✔️ Children’s Club facilities and dedicated services for ages 2 – 12.
✔️ MICE facilities for companies seeking a professional yet unconventional & exceptional retreat for their employees,
✔️ And over 50 activities within the resort, including opportunities to discover the beauteous culture and nature of Lombok Island.
Highly accessible with direct flights to the newly constructed Lombok International Airport for international and domestic guests, Club Med Lombok is a mere 30 minute drive away.
Lombok, the undiscovered gem of Indonesia
Lombok is a well-preserved island located east of Bali with fine destinations in the south, such as Mandalika. Blessed with over 16 kilometres of stunning natural landscapes and the rich culture of Indonesia, it is the ideal retreat for weary city dwellers and worldly travellers who seek an escape from the hectic schedule of city life. Guests at Club Med Lombok can look forward to reclining on the serene shores, or immersing themselves into the traditions and ways of exotic Indonesia.
Club Med tourists exploring Indonesia and enjoying the music of local Bali performers. Increased tourism from the new Club Med Lombok luxury resort is expected to bring many wealthy new tourists to the new Mandalika Resorts project, driving up the local economy and the value and prices of Lombok investments.
Pelindo III: New Lombok Cruise Port
State-owned port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia III (Persero) will build a new deep water port allowing large cruise ships to directly disembark passengers. In addition to cruise ship docking the new port will have container cargo loading/unloading facilities. Pelindo III expects to finish the new port by 2018.
Date: September 6, 2016
Source: Tempo.Co
State-owned port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia III (Persero) will soon build a new Lombok cruise port in West Nusa Tenggara.
State-owned port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia III (Persero) will soon build a new port in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, called Gili Mas New Port, located not far from Lembar Port. Cruise ships are expected to dock at the port by 2018.
“This year alone, 13 cruise ship have visited Lembar Port,” Public Relations Manager of PT Pelindo III Edi Priyanto told Tempo at his office, Monday, September 5, 2016.
In 2016, some 18 cruise ships are scheduled to dock at Lembar Port. West Lombok has seen an upward trend of cruise ship arrivals year over year. “We expect to see a high number of cruise ship passenger arrivals this year. Many ships will arrive directly from Australia,” Edi said.
Therefore, the Gili Mas New Port construction is imperative to meet the need for passenger services. Previously, passengers of cruise ships docking at Lombok must be carried by boats to reach the shore because Lembar Port has a depth of less than -10 LWS (Low Water Spring).
Unlike the Lembar Port, Gili Mas Port has -16 to -18 LWS depth, allowing large cruise ships to directly disembark the passengers. “Aside from passenger terminal, we will also build a container terminal.”
Pelindo III expects to commence the new port construction by year-end and to complete it by 2018. Pelindo is currently in the process of acquiring 50 hectares of land of the total requirement of 100 hectares. “The investment value reaches Rp1 trillion,” Edi said.
Investors Set Sights on Neighboring Lombok
Lombok’s Selong Belanak Beach
Date: May 26, 2016
Source: Hauteresidence.com
Just a few years ago, exploring the Indonesian island of Lombok, Bali’s eastern neighbor, took a lot of time and patience.
You could travel by boat several hours across the Lombok Straits, and there were also a limited number of flights––a quick 25 minutes in the air and often half a day of travel with airport delays, traffic, and potholed roads that taxis shared with horse-drawn carts, goats, and the occasional wedding procession.
Things have changed. The Indonesian government has thrown its weight behind Lombok, building a new international airport and investing $200 million in infrastructure. And with more of the island now accessible to visitors, developers have set their sights on Lombok’s south coast, where affordable land and increasing tourism offer promising investment potential.
Mandalika’s Kuta Beach
“Right now land prices are a fraction of Bali’s,” says Tobi Doeringer, co-founder of Hong Kong-based development company Private Sanctuary who is developing home sites in Lombok. “On a prime plot of land, you can buy and build a villa for $400,000. In Bali, you pay over $1.5 million.”
While the market’s formative years were characterized by speculative land banking of uncertified hillsides and to a lesser extent, beachfront land, today, reputable developers in Lombok ensure the clearing of land titles and conduct a thorough pre-purchase review. They are also likely to know about the government’s latest plans for infrastructure development, the timeline for a new road, or the extension of fiber optic cables.
The first region to benefit from the new airport and new highway has been the area around Kuta, a village on the southern coast known for its powdery white sand beaches, mountain ranges, and surfing. Previously difficult for visitors to access, Kuta is now reached in 30 minutes via a new highway from the airport. Developments currently under construction include The Mandalika Resort––a large-scale, master-planned resort being developed by the Bali Tourism Development Corporation and the Indonesian government––a Club Med, a Pullman, and a Novotel.
And while prices remain well below Bali’s, they are rising steadily. In 2015, prices across the board were up 10 to 20 percent year-on-year and 300 percent over the four-year period from 2011, says Stewart Strong, managing director at Elite Havens property agency in Lombok. “As the market matures, sizes are coming down, and prices are going up,” he says.
So far, Strong says growth has been focused in certain pockets where localized infrastructure and developments are being constructed. The Mandalika Resort, for example, served as a catalyst for overall market growth in Kuta. Now, other catalyst projects are paving the way for further development, including Selong Selo, a luxury villa project in Selong Belanak.
Selong Belanak, located a 25 minute drive from the International Airport, is the home of the upcoming Selong Selo Residences in the Jabon hills area of Selong Belanak. It will offer a collection of contemporary villas and resort facilities, including a private beach club, a spa, and tennis courts.
Treetops Villa at Selong Selo, an upcoming resort in Selong Belanak
Investors can choose from several investment options, including subdivided plots with basic infrastructure and turnkey Kayu Villas that come fully furnished with two or three bedrooms and 2,443 square feet of open-plan living space. The project is already more than 75 percent sold with remaining villas ranging in price from $424,000 to $503,000.
Selong Selo Villa
Villa at Selong Selo
While the rental market is not as strong as Bali’s, lower land prices lead to an overall higher return. “You make about 80 percent of the rental returns you get in Bali, but for a tenth of the price, so you have a much higher return,” says Tobi Doeringer.
Plus Lombok’s tourism market is picking up. In 2015, there were more than two million arrivals, up from 1.3 million in 2013. The new airport now receives direct flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur and recently announced direct routes from Hong Kong and Beijing. And for those transiting through Bali, the days of unreliable prop planes are over. Garuda Indonesia now regularly shuttles 747s between the two islands.
Lombok Land Investors Arrive
Lombok investment is soaring as the Indonesian government increasingly throws its weight behind Lombok. The new Lombok International Airport (“BIL”), hundreds of millions of $USD in capital improvements already invested in the island with many more millions $USD slated, the Mandalika Resort mega project in Kuta coming of age, many infrastructure improvements completed and more planned are just a few of the reasons. White sand beaches, unspoiled natural beauty and a short 20 minute plane flight from Bali also herald ripe territory for Lombok investors – especially in the Kuta and the south of the island.
Date: May 5, 2016
Source: HauteResidence.com
Lombok investement news: Affordable land, a rapidly growing infrastructure and an exploding tourism market have put Lombok on the radar for Lombok land investors.
Just a few years ago, exploring the Indonesian island of Lombok, Bali’s eastern neighbor, took a lot of time and patience. You could travel by boat several hours across the Lombok Straits, and there were also a limited number of flights––a quick 25 minutes in the air and often half a day of travel with airport delays, traffic, and potholed roads that taxis shared with horse-drawn carts, goats, and the occasional wedding procession.
But things have changed. The Indonesian government has thrown its weight behind Lombok, building a new international airport and investing $200 million in infrastructure. And with more of the island now accessible to visitors, developers have set their sights on Lombok’s south coast, where affordable land and increasing tourism offer promising investment potential.
Virgin white-sand beaches, land prices only a fraction of Bali’s, and the new Madalika Resorts mega project are just the tip of the iceberg diving investors from the crowded and competitive Bali market to nearby Lombok – a stone’s throw to the east. Investors are waking up to Lombok’s investment potential and making fistfuls of cash in the process.
“Right now land prices are a fraction of Bali’s,” says Tobi Doeringer, co-founder of Hong Kong-based development company Private Sanctuary who is developing home sites in Lombok. “On a prime plot of land, you can buy and build a villa for $400,000. In Bali, you pay over $1.5 million.”
While the market’s formative years were characterized by speculative land banking of uncertified hillsides and to a lesser extent, beachfront land, today, reputable developers in Lombok ensure the clearing of land titles and conduct a thorough pre-purchase review. They are also likely to know about the government’s latest plans for infrastructure development, the timeline for a new road, or the extension of fiber optic cables.
The first region to benefit from the new airport and new highway has been the area around Kuta, a village on the southern coast known for its powdery white sand beaches, mountain ranges, and surfing. Previously difficult for visitors to access, Kuta is now reached in 30 minutes via a new highway from the airport. Developments currently under construction include The Mandalika Resort––a large-scale, master-planned resort being developed by the Bali Tourism Development Corporation and the Indonesian government––a Club Med, a Pullman, and a Novotel.
And while prices remain well below Bali’s, they are rising steadily. In 2015, prices across the board were up 10 to 20 percent year-on-year and 300 percent over the four-year period from 2011, says Stewart Strong, managing director at Elite Havens property agency in Lombok. “As the market matures, sizes are coming down, and prices are going up,” he says.
So far, Strong says growth has been focused in certain pockets where localized infrastructure and developments are being constructed. The Mandalika Resort, for example, served as a catalyst for overall market growth in Kuta. Now, other catalyst projects are paving the way for further development, including Selong Selo, a luxury villa project in Selong Belanak.
Indonesia at Madrid FITUR Expo
The international tourism trade fair, Fitur, which takes place annually at the Ifema trade fair in the centre of Madrid, has become one of the biggest tourism fairs worldwide and No. 1 on the Iberian Peninsula. In “National Pavilions”, the particularities of regions are presented to visitors of the fair, mainly consisting of decision-makers in the tourism industry, such as travel agencies and tourism associations. The fair is considered the most important gateway to the Latin American market. The event serves as a global communication platform for developing future strategies taking into account the changes in consumer demand and international tourism promotion.
Date: Fri, January 29, 2016
Source: TheJakartaPost.com
Lombok tourism to increase as Indonesia joins Madrid FITUR Tourism Expo and promotes 10 destinations outside Bali
The Indonesian pavilion at the Feria International Turismo (FITUR) exhibition in Madrid, Spain, attracted more than 1,000 daily visitors and secured about 300 transactions from Jan. 20 to 24. The visitors were said to have revealed interest in the 10 tourist destinations highlighted at the pavilion, namely Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Tanjung Kelayang in Belitung, Tanjung Lesung in Banten, the Thousand Islands in Jakarta, Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Mount Bromo in East Java, Mandalika in South Lombok, Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, Wakatobi in Southeast Sulawesi and Morotai in North Maluku.
Interesting events such as Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival performances, local coffee tasting and a sweepstakes with prizes that included a trip to Tanjung Puting National Park in Central Kalimantan were also presented to attract more visitors.
FITUR is reportedly the world’s third biggest international tourism exhibition after the Internationale Tourismus Borse (ITB) Berlin and London World Travel Market. Up to 165 countries, 9,605 tour operators and 711 companies joined this year’s event, which was visited by more than 231,000 people.
4 New Mandalika Resort Hotels
The massive new Mandalika Resort development plan sprawls over 1,200 hectares of land, with 7.5 kilometers of beaches and ocean frontage. Four new Mandalika Resort Hotels have been announced and more are coming as the project finally gains traction and begins to remake the face of Kuta, Lombok.
Date: 16 December 2015
Source: Deal Street Asia
Accor to begin construction of Lombok Pullman Hotel – one of four new Mandalika Resort hotels to be built.
The French hotel operator is one of four investors that have announced plans to build five-star hotels in Mandalika, The Jakarta Post reported. The three others are Jiva Samudera Biru (JSB), French-based hotel chain Club Med and Lee International from South Korea.
State-owned Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) confirmed that AccorHotels and Club Med had signed contracts, while the two others had only signed memorandums of understanding (MoU), the report added.
“We are really trying to get the ones who signed MOUs to also build the hotels and for JSB to cooperate with Intercontinental to operate the hotel,” ITDC director for business and development Edwin Darmasetiawan said, adding that JSB was planning to build two hotels. Edwin said JSB would also build a convention center for an undisclosed investment sum. Development of the hotels, apart from the Pullman one, is slated to start next year and finish within two-and-a-half years.
Construction of the Pullman hotel is estimated to cost around Rp 400 billion ($28.75 million), set to come from the company’s own funds.
The Mandalika Resort, located in the southern part of Lombok island, is a 20-minute drive from Lombok International Airport (LOP). It boasts 7.5 kilometers of Indian Ocean beaches that offer diving, snorkeling and fishing sites.
ITDC, which was assigned by the government to develop the area in 2008 and granted the right to manage around 1,035 hectares of land, claimed to make it easier for investors to acquire land-use rights.
Edwin previously said the area would feature hotels, a marina, a golf course, villas and a convention hall.
The development of the area is part of the government’s efforts to boost foreign tourist arrivals to 20 million per year by 2019 from around 10 million annual visits at present.
ITDC president director Abdulbar M Mansoer said the company was planning to have 20 starred hotels built within 20 years. ‘We have four five-stars hotels for the start, and we have prepared for the infrastructure,’ he said.
Apart from hotels, the ITDC revealed that it had entered into cooperation with US-based company EBD Bauer to convert seawater into clean water in a bid to improve access to clean water to the area.
The estimated total cost required for the whole Mandalika infrastructure is Rp 2.1 trillion. So far, the firm has built 4 km of roads in the Tanjung Aan area.
Meanwhile, Kalla, who was present at the groundbreaking ceremony, called for faster development of the special economic zone.
He stated that infrastructure development in the area, such as airport and water access, had improved compared to the situation around 25 years ago.
‘So I ask to expedite the development,’ he said, as quoted by the Antara news agency. He also added that the conditions in Mandalika were better compared to the initial development of Nusa Dua, Bali, in the past. Kalla was accompanied by Tourism Minister Arief Yahya, among others.
Mandalika Resort Development
A model of the new Mandalika Resort mega-development is reviewed and discussed by Vice President M. Jusuf Kalla (third right), who received an explanation by Tourism Development Director of PT Indonesia (Persero) or Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), Abdulbar M. Mansoer (second right), about plans for tourism development at Mandalika during the inauguration of the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Mandalika in Kuta, Central Lombok. President Joko Widowo (“Jokowi”) has publicly pledged the full support of his office to the rapid development and completion of the Mandalika Resort project.
Date: December 14, 2015
Source: Anatara News
Accelerated completion of the Mandalika Resort Development in Kuta, Lombok will help speed economic growth in the province of West Nusa Tenggara.
After recording sluggish progress since its opening in October 2011, the development of the Mandalika resort which has recently attained the status of a “Special Economic Zone” (SEZ) in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, will be expedited.
Reviewing the development of the Mandalika Tourism SEZ in Central Lombok over the weekend, Vice President M. Jusuf Kalla stated that the local communities should be trained in hospitality skills, such as service with a smile and also about maintaining cleanliness. Kalla noted that tourist attractions in various regions in the country have drawn several foreign tourists, but innovation is the key to attracting more investment.
“Tourism is the easiest means to attract investment as it does not require huge capital,” Kalla said, adding that the main capital given freely by God is the beautiful natural landscape and the hospitable behavior of the residents around the tourism site. Therefore, the vice president noted that the best approach to develop tourism is to bring about innovation as he believes there are several places in the country that are considered usual and mediocre but are of immense interest to foreigners.
“Several tourist spots here are discovered by foreigners as the appeal of a place holds different significance to different people. For instance, we take for granted our blue sea and the variety of coral reefs, but for foreign tourists, they are very exciting,” the vice president affirmed.
Kalla on Saturday also reviewed the preparations for the construction of four five-tar hotels at the Mandalika Special Economic Zone. Arriving on the scene, the Vice President and the group immediately got the exposure of a number of investors who will build the four five-star hotels at the Mandalika SEZ in Central Lombok.
Four hotels to begin construction in 2016, are Pullman Hotel of the investment fund PT Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), which is a state-owned enterprise (SOEs) in the field of tourism. Other hotels are Intercontinental Hotel, Club Med Hotel and Lees Hotel, and the construction of the entire capacity of the 850-room hotels was targeted to be completed within a period of two and a half years.
“Everything has been completed, and there no reason not to accelerate the construction of these four hotels,” the vice president noted.
After hearing the exposure of investors, the vice president then listened to the explanation of President Director of PT ITDC, Abdulbar M Mansoer, related to the development of Mandalika SEZ within the next 10 years. In addition to building hotels, ITDC will also build the basic infrastructure needed by the hotels to support their operation, such as the need for clean water that will utilize seawater through the refining process. This work is done by establishing a partnership with EBD Bauer, one of the American companies engaged in the purification of seawater into fresh water.
Other infrastructure that is in the process of being set up is a solar power plant (SPP) and gas power plants for hotels in Mandalika SEZ, which will not use electrical energy from the State Electricity Company (PLN).
“Thus, some 20 star-rated hotels will be built in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone within 20 years. For the first stage, we will build four five-star hotels, and we have prepared the basic infrastructure,” said Abdulbar.
ITDC is also constructing the Tourism College (STP), which will create the human resources needed by the hotels. Capital Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Chief Franky Sibarani has stated that, when completed, the special economic zone of Mandalika resort will be able to employ more than 58,000 workers.
“During the construction period, the number of workers is predicted to increase by two to three fold and reduce the flow of Indonesian workers abroad,” Franky said some time ago. In his visit to Mandalika resort in Central Lombok last May, the BKPM chief noted that the absorption of labor in large numbers in West Nusa Tenggara was important because the province was the largest supplier of Indonesian workers abroad.
“I visit Mandalika resort to make sure that the realization of the investment process in the development of the special economic zone goes without a hitch, so as to encourage employment and economic growth in the province,” Franky remarked. Further, he noted that BKPM was ready to help promote the development of Mandalika resort abroad in international forums, such as Milan World Expo, and other promotional events in Japan and China.
According to Franky, the Mandalika Special Economic Zone is ready to welcome investment from investors, because the master plan for construction has been completed and the land acquisition problem is also almost finished.
Member of West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Legislative Assemblys Commission-II Yek Agil has promised to fight for, and guard the development of Mandalika resort. “We must guard the development of Mandalika because it has been ignored for too long,” Agil said in the West Nusa Tenggara provincial city of Mataram recently. He noted that the commitment of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) to continue the development of Mandalika resort deserves much appreciation. “We highly appreciate the commitment of President Jokowis government to move ahead with the development by allocating Rp1.8 trillion for that purpose,” Agil remarked. He also expressed his hope that the governments plan to allocate Rp1.8 trillion in funding for the development of Mandalika resort could soon be realized.
33 Million Indonesia Tourists by 2019!
Bali’s Plaza Garuda at Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park is a ± 60 ha area located in Ungasan, Badung Regency, about 15 minutes drive from Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport. With a future plan of ±120-meter tall and 64-meter width statue of Garuda Wisnu as its main attraction, GWK Cultural Park boasts one of the largest artistic masterpiece and most astonishing works of arts ever created in Indonesia’s art history which reflects the strong values of one of Indonesia’s inherited local cultures.
Date: December 13, 2015
Source: IndonesiaInvestements.com
Indonesia government sets 33 million Indonesia tourists as the new goal for 2019
Although the Indonesian government’s target of welcoming 20 million foreign tourists by 2019 seems highly ambitious given that Indonesia may fail to achieve its target of seeing 10 million foreign visitor arrivals in 2015, several analysts claim that this target is too low. They believe that the target should be raised to 33 million foreign visitors, earning USD $40 billion in foreign exchange, hence replacing crude palm oil as the country’s leading foreign exchange earner. However, this new target would only be possible if the government is serious about developing its 10 designated tourist destinations.
One of Indonesia’s most famous tourist attractions, Candi Borobudur (Borobudur Temple) is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia. It is both the world’s largest Buddhist temple and one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world. The temple consists of nine stacked platforms (six square and three circular) topped by a central dome and is decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The central dome is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues, each seated inside a perforated stupa. Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty, the temple was designed in Javanese Buddhist architecture, which blends the Indonesian indigenous cult of ancestor worship and the Buddhist concept of attaining Nirvana.
These ten designated tourist centers (see table below) are selected by the Indonesian government as they are considered to have considerable growth potential. The government will organize international events and engage in advertisement campaigns to promote these ten destinations. Indonesian Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said these destinations should support foreign visitor arrivals to reach 12 million in 2016. However, the minister added that infrastructure needs to be improved in and around these locations.
Table showing the Indonesia government’s ten designated tourist destinations that it plans to promote in the hope of attracting 33 Million Indonesia Tourists by year 2019.
Three institutions – Indef, Kenta Institute and the Indonesia Tourism Industry Board (GIPI) – claim that Indonesia should be able to attract 33 million foreign visitors by 2019 as the country offers more to the tourist market than any other ASEAN member country, including Thailand and Malaysia. Indonesia is much larger, has more tourist objects, a more diverse cultural composition, plenty of historic and religious remnants, and beautiful and a wide variety of natural scenery.
However, in order to attract 33 million foreign tourists by 2019, these three institutions say at least three requirements have to be met. Firstly, the government has to enhance intra- and inter island connectivity around the ten designated tourist centers. For example, runways have to be extended as they are currently too short to serve larger airplanes. Moreover, operation hours of these local airports have to be extended as they currently close at 17:00 pm. Secondly, passenger and cargo terminals (sea transportation) have to be built separately. Thirdly, there should be direct international flights from and to these ten designated tourist centers (implying there have to be immigration services as well).
Foreign Tourist Arrivals 2013-2015
Eric Alexander Sugandi, analyst at the Kenta Institute, stated that apart from improving infrastructure, local services and skills also need to be improved in order to satisfy foreign tourists. For example, hotel management, skills of hotel staff and guides (including foreign language skills), as well as taxi services.
Source: Statistics Indonesia (BPS)
TOV Commercial Complex Land Clearing
Land clearing for the new Tanjung Ocean View Commercial Complex begins, In response to numerous requests by those who own lots in the project, TOV developer has designated 4 plots of land at the entrance to the project for commercial and business operations, incvluding offices, shops, restaurants and other commercial activities.
Date: December 5, 2015
Source: TOV News
Developer begins land clearing for new commercial zone as Tanjung Ocean View establishes new TOV Commercial Complex business area.
In response to numerous requests that the Tanjung Ocean View project allow limited commercial/retail development, the developer of TOV has agreed to contribute 5 plots of land for the construction of a new retail area at the bottom of the project, fronting the Kuta Bypass Road entrance to Tanjung Ocean View. The decision to allow the commercial use of these almost 5,150 sq. mtrs. of developer-owned land was made after a number of current owners expressed a desire to have a variety of shops and retails outlets conveniently situated near the TOV project.
As the CC&Rs (Covenants Conditions & Restrictions) at TOV limit development of TOV lots to residential development only, the five developer owned lots to be used for the new TOV Commercial Complex will now comprise a separate project and is no longer part of the Tanjung Ocean View development or the TOV Owner’s Association which, among other things, controls development of lots within the boundaries of the TOV project.
Approximately 1,900 sq. mtrs. of the new retail area previously comprise two lots, upon which were situated two partially constructed hotel buildings, both of which having been built by a third party in violation of the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions which specifically prohibited hotel development within the TOV project. The two lots were returned to the developer after a lawsuit brought by the developer against the builder of the hotel project and the Praya court adjudication of the matter in the plaintiff’s favor. After finalization of the court action, the developer removed the violating buildings and began leveling the entire 4,000 sq. mtr. area in anticipation of the coming commercial/retail development.
Design work for the commercial/retail area has not yet been finalized and both TOV owners and surrounding residents are encouraged to voice any preferences they may have as to the design and composition of the new project.
The new development will be a strictly western style, modern complex, tentatively planned to include the following and more:
- Management Office – to manage the TOV development and its Owner’s Association, as well as to provide sales and management services to TOV land and home owners.
- Bakery – serving European stye fresh breads, real bagels, pastries and other sweets and confections.
- Restaurants – a minimum of 2, each serving different, to- be-determined cuisines.
- Mini-mart – in the “Indo Mart”, style
- Delicatessen – providing liquor, wines, cheeses, meats, and a large selection of garden fresh fruits and vegetables, in addition to a variety of all the imported goods we all miss having here in Kuta.
- Beverage and Coffee Shop – serving almost non-existent/hard to find European/Western style hot and cold coffees (Latte, Cappucino, Macchiato, Mocha, Esresso, Americano, etc.) and bottled and prepared cold drinks, complete with food items, all in a ” Starbucks” like environment.
- Motor Bike and Car Rental Service.
- Architect’s Office.
- Building and Construction Contractor’s Office.
- Art and Handicrafts Store – showcasing Lombok and greater Indonesia, ceramics, weaving, painting, batiks and other local arts and crafts.
- Outdoor tables and seating with sun and rain protected areas.
- Air-conditioned indoor eating and lounge area.
Additional information, design-work and construction information will be posted to this site as available.
Have any requests – let us know now, before plans are finalized!
Four New Mandalika Hotels
Date: November 28, 2015
Source: TheJakartaPost.com
First of four new Mandalika hotels to break ground – great news for TOV owners!
According to an article in today’s Jakarta Post, Edwin Darmasetiawan, the Business and Development Director of the state-owned Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), is quoted as saying that ITDC is currently in the process of securing roughly US$65 million in investments to further develop the Mandalika Resorts project in Kuta, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara into Indonesia’s “premier tourist destination”.
In the arricle, Edwin further reveals that on December 12, 2015, ITDC will mark the formal ground-breaking ceremony for the new Mandalika Resort Pullman Hotel – the first resort hotel project to commence construction within the Mandalika project. (Those who have been to the Novotel, Kuta recently have seen that in fact, the Pullman Hotel has already begun).
Other Mandalika Resort development matters referred to in the Jakarta Post article include the following:
- The Indonesian government has set a goal of 20 million tourist visits to the country by 2019 and, in order to meet this goal, ITDC will focus on three primary areas – most importantly the Mandalika Resorts project, but also including Lake Toba in North Sumatra and Tanjung Lesung in Banten.
- The master-planed 1,035 hectare Mandalika “eco-tourism” project has a development footprint of only 35% of the total land and thus will leave a significant portion of the project as open/undeveloped area.
- The new Pullman Hotel, with an estimated direct investment by ITDC of Rp 400 billion (US$29 million), will formally break ground on December 12, 2015. The Pullman Hotel will be managed by France-based hotel operator Accor.
- France’s Club Méditerranée (Club Med) has signed an MOU with ITDC and has formalized its plan to build a 2nd hotel at the Mandalika Resorts project with an estimated 350 to 400 rooms. (This, according to recent Cub Med press releases).
- The US $65 million amount which ITDC intends to secure for the balance of the project is based on the master plan for the Mandalika Resorts project created by the ITDC. The area will also see the construction of hotels, a marina, golf course, villas and a convention hall in the mid- to long-term plan as an adjunct to its positioning as an ecotourism destination.
- According to Edwin, ITDC has cooperated with the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) to reach potential investors in the Middle East. The IDB had also offered to provide loans for investors to develop various projects in the area.
- Mr. Darmasetiawan reminded potential investors that acquisition of the HPL land has already been accomplished by ITDC and thus there are no land acquisition costs to investors.
- Mandalika recorded 125,307 foreign tourist visits in 2013, according to Tourism Ministry data. However, the future projection is set at 1 million foreign tourist visits a year.
The Mandalika Resort contains 7.5 kilometers of ocean-front white sand beaches, including Kuta Beach, Seger Beach and A’an Beach (Tanjung A’an) near TOV and is a mere 20-minute drive from Lombok International Airport. The Mandalika project now has 4 kilometers of recently installed interior roadways and a site office from which the development is managed.
The Tanjung Ocean View owners know that TOV is strategically located on the immediate periphery of Mandalika Resorts, looks down on the Mandalika project from TOV’s higher elevation and was purposely created in this location to profit from price increases resulting from the Mandalika Resorts development. Anyone planning to buy Kuta land, to invest in Lombok or to buy a house or commercial property in South Lombok should bear in mind that prices will undoubtedly rise dramtically as the Mandalika Resorts project moves forward. Invest in Kuta now – don’t wait until prices skyrocket!
First Tanjung Ocean View Villa Now Under Construction!
Date: September 22, 2014
Source: Lee Pappernow
One of the finest villas built on any Lombok land parcel is now under construction at Tanjung Ocean View (“TOV”), the premier South Lombok Land development project located in the Kuta area of Lombok Island. The project, which broke ground several months ago, is already well on its way to completion by owner Theo Dandine. Designed and constructed to showcase the spectacular ocean view land at TOV, Mr. Dandine’s gorgeous 4 bedroom, 750 square meter villa spans his properties lots (Lots 16 & 17) will also be available for vacation rental when the owner is not residing on property. This exquisitely luxurious villa was designed by Bali architect Gary Fell who is also assisting with the construction management. Built on 3 terraced levels, with sweeping ocean views of Gerupuk and Tanjung A’an Bays, Gary and Theo’s collaboration is clearly bearing sweet fruit. More of architect Gary Fell’s work can be seen at http://www.gfabarchitects.com. With sweeping panoramic, white-water views of Kuta Bay, Gerupuk Bay and A’an Bay, the Tanjung Ocean View project is perhaps the finest South Lombok luxury Land development in the Kuta area.
New Tanjung Ocean View Roads
Date: March 13, 2013
Source: Lee Pappernow
I am happy to report that after much work, the interior roads for Phase 1 of the TOV project are completed. We are currently working on the new East Side Access road which has been lowered at the top by roughly 2 meters (to reduce the steepness at the top of the road), drainage channels for this newly lowered road, and a second reinforced retaining wall at the cul-de-sac at Lots 26, 27 & 28.
When this work is completed, we will be paving the first coat of asphalt on the East Side Rd., installing the finish stone/concrete liners for the new East Side drainage channels, and applying additional asphalt as needed on the roads already paved with a single layer
Bye for now…