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Sail Moyo Tambora kicks off in West Nusa Tenggara
Sail Moyo Tambora marks Indonesia's 10th time participating in the International Sail series, since the 2009 Sail Bunaken.
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The picturesque Moyo Island, West Nusa Tenggara. (Shutterstock/File)
The 2018 Sail Moyo Tambora kicked off on Sunday at Badas Port in Labuhan Badas district, Sumbawa regency, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).
The event was inaugurated by Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Luhut Pandjaitan.
Luhut said Sail Moyo Tambora marked Indonesia's 10th time participating in the International Sail series, since the 2009 Sail Bunaken.
"Initially the sail event was conducted to accelerate development in regions. However, since the 2017 Sail Sabang, it has focused on the development of tourist destinations," he said.
NTB is home to rich marine tourism, hence it is a suitable location to hold such international-level events, Luhut added.
"The late Lady Diana and legendary Mick Jagger, as well as other figures have visited Moyo Island; it means that it is known worldwide."
Read also: Sail Moyo Tambora 2018 to highlight West Nusa Tenggara tourism
Alongside Tambora, which erupted in 1815, the two icons are a perfect combination to promote tourism in NTB, especially Sumbawa.
Luhut is hopeful the event can provide a boost for Lombok-Sumbawa tourism after earthquakes struck the region recently.
The opening ceremony was enlivened by various art performances and skydiving.
Around 20 foreign participants are taking part in the event.
NTB Tourism Agency head Lalu M. Faozal said at least 140 yachts from 48 countries would pass through Indonesian waters, including Sumbawa and Lombok.
"Hopefully this sail event can help boost the spirit of tourism in NTB," he said. (kes)
