Government to build Tana Toraja Airport

MAKASSAR: Lack of infrastructure has prevented foreign tourists from visiting South Sulawesi's top destinations, including Tana Toraja regency, Tourism Minister Jero Wacik said on Friday.

Wacik said tourists had to spend at least eight hours on a bus to reach Tana Toraja, a spot renowned for its natural beauty and unique culture.

"It *long travel time* can definitely prevent tourists from coming there," he told reporters after meeting South Sulawesi Governor Syahrul Yasin Limpo. He said his ministry had included plans to develop the Tana Toraja Airport as part of the 2009-2014 tourism agenda.

"Boeing 737 planes will be able to land at the airport." - JP