MATARAM: The former Ampenan Seaport in West Nusa Tenggara is due to be developed into a maritime tourism site, according to Mataram Mayor Ahyar Abduh.

The seaport has not operated since 1970, but another seaport will be built at the location, designated to serve for maritime tourist activities.

The municipality has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with PT Gunung Lawoe Mercu Buana (GLMB), which is expected to invest around Rp 2.7 trillion to develop a 1-hectare plot, beginning this year.

“The MoU has been inked and we expect to begin construction this year,” Ahyar told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday.

Disclosing the master plan, Ahyar said that the tourism resort would emulate the model of Ancol in Jakarta, which would be complimented with a port for cruise services, accommodation with starred hotels and other entertainment facilities.

With the existing plot only measuring one hectare, the project’s developer will reclaim land from the beach to meet the need for a further four hectares.