Bali and foreign investors to develop Lombok tourism

PT Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Dubai-based Emaar Property to develop tourism facilities on Lombok Island in West Nusa Tenggara province.

State-Owned Enterprises Minister Mustofa Abu Bakar told reporters that Lombok had huge tourism potential.

“There are a number of potential investors including those from India and Middle East countries, in addition to Emaar Property, which are interested in investing in Lombok, the minister said.

These prospective investors were interested in developing hotels, villas, supporting tourist facilities and infrastructure.

“Lombok Island is so close to Bali. Developing other tourist destinations is important to avoid tourism market saturation in Bali,” he said.

Bali welcomes 2 million foreign visitors every year. Millions of domestic tourists also flood the
island during school and religious holidays.

The minister said the construction of a new international airport was underway to accommodate more local and international flights to Lombok.

Made Mandra, BTDC’s director, said the company was currently preparing other possible MOUs with several parties, but refused to elaborate.

BTDC is currently managing properties at the Nusa Dua Resorts.

“Many of our guests continued their holiday trips to some favorite destinations in Lombok such as Gili Trawangan Island, etc,” he said.

— JP/Wasti Atmodjo