More than 100 tourist destinations in Riau province have been closed due to COVID-19.

“There are 117 places that no longer operate, and 18 destinations that remain open while implementing health protocols, such as disinfection, providing a handwashing facility and applying social distancing,” Riau Tourism Agency acting head Raja Yoserizal Zen told Antara news agency in Pekanbaru, Riau, on Thursday.

Ten destinations are closed in Siak regency, including Siak Palace, which serves as a regional tourism icon. Two mosques will remain open, Syahabuddin Mosque and Islamic Center Mosque.

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According to Raja, other affected regions include Bengkalis regency with 57 destinations that have suspended operations, Kampar regency (34), Indragiri Hulu regency (13), Dumai city (12), Meranti Islands regency (10), Rokan Hilir regency (10), Pekanbaru city (nine), Kuantan Singingi regency (eight), Rokan Hulu regency (five), Indragiri Hilir (four) and Pelalawan (three).

Raja called on local residents to remain calm, stay alert and practice physical distancing throughout the pandemic.

"If you have to leave the house, use a facemask; a cloth mask will do [if you don't have a facemask]. And always wash your hands; it's more effective than hand sanitizer," he said.

Provinces across the country have been forced to close down their tourist attractions to help curb the spread of the coronavirus. The East Nusa Tenggara administration,  home to popular tourist destinations Komodo National Park, Wae Rebo traditional village and Kelimutu National Park, has closed all its tourist spots since late March. (gis/kes)

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