The Indonesian government is preparing the Tidore Islands to become a new National Strategic Tourism Area in Eastern Indonesia. The ongoing Nusantara Day (Harnus) 2023 celebration is considered government support. Scheduled from December 10th-13th, it centers on the theme "Forging Nusantara Connectivity and Maritime Economy from Ground Zero of the Spice Route," aiming to elevate Tidore into a National Strategic Tourism Area. Minister of Transportation, Budi Karya Sumadi, emphasized the significance of Nusantara Day for commemorating cultural diversity, encouraging domestic tourism, and nurturing unity, further aligning with President Joko Widodo's development focus to boost Indonesia's regions.
Governor Abdul Gani Kasuba praised Tidore for hosting national-scale events, underlining the government's attention toward smaller islands. He highlighted the significance of safeguarding Indonesia's unity during the Nusantara Day 2023 celebrations. Additionally, he urged the central government to expedite the development of Loleo Airport in Tidore, anticipating easier access to the Eastern Indonesian tourism destination. Tidore's historical importance as the starting point of the Spice Route's clove export resonated in selecting it as the Harnus 2023 location. The Ministry of Transportation, chaired by the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, leads the event to attract both local and international tourists. Adita Irawati, Ministry of Transportation spokesperson, emphasized Tidore's representation of the eastern Indonesian region, mostly encompassing oceanic areas. She highlighted its economic and touristic potential, emphasizing the sea as a unifying element for the archipelago. Preparation of transportation facilities like Babullah Airport and ferry terminals is underway to facilitate Nusantara Day 2023, ensuring coordination among related stakeholders for a smooth event.
