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Morotai Island highlights underwater beauty with photo competition
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A view of a beach in Morotai. The island is currently hosting the Morotai Underwater Photo Contest 2017 from May 15 to 19. (Shutterstock/File)
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art of Indonesia "10 New Bali" destinations, Morotai Island in North Maluku is known for its underwater beauty and historical relics from World War II.
The island is currently hosting the Morotai Underwater Photo Contest 2017 from May 15 to 19, which aims to preserve coral reefs and other sea creatures, as well as promote Morotai's pristine underwater scenes.
The competition is open to the public, with locations mostly concentrated in the southern part of Morotai. According to the head of Morotai's Tourism Agency, Toni Hangewa, the diving sites were divided into three locations, with each having two diving spots.
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“The three diving sites include Wreck WWII Wawama and Tanjung Liku; Mitita Shark Point and White Sand Island; and Koloray and Dodola,” said Hangewa.
The competition is divided into three categories based on the camera being used: Open DSLR, Compact Macro and Compact Wide Angle.
“Judging criteria include image sharpness, uniqueness of the concept and natural appeal. Photos that are sent to the committee will be used for publication and promotional materials,” Toni added.
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The underwater photo competition is part of the Wonderful Morotai Islands Festival, which runs for six months until October 2017. There are six main events presented in this festival, highlighting ecotourism, as well as cultural and man-made tourism.
This year, Morotai Island is targeting to welcome at least 11,000 foreign tourists.
“This [photo competition] aims to attracts 135 foreign and 540 domestic tourists,” said Esthy Reko Astuti, the Tourism Ministry's development deputy for archipelago tourism. (kes)
