Three Keys To Restoring Bali's Economy Ala Menko Luhut

JAKARTA - Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Binsar Panjaitan said there are three keys that must be done to be able to restore the economy in Bali Province. Because, Bali had experienced a deep contraction of 0.3 percent during 2020.

"Bali's economy is significantly affected by COVID-19. Contraction is deeper than the national economy. Therefore, I think there are three keys to Bali's economic recovery in the short term," he said in the webinar 'Bali Economic and Investment Forum 2021', Thursday, April 8.

Luhut said, the first key is better control of COVID-19, not only in Bali, but also nationally. According to him, with good control, the spread can be suppressed so that economic activity will return to normal.

"Second, the vaccination process in Bali so that herd immunity is immediately created. Because there is a two-month delay in vaccines from the original plan," he said.

The last is to create strict health protocols in Bali. Especially, for foreign tourists because it must be established a deal with the country of origin of the tourist.

"We are exploring negotiations with several countries to open a travel bubble with Bali," he explained.

In addition, said Luhut, the move to restore Bali's economy for the medium and long term there are several incentives that will be provided by the Government.

First, the development of health tourism by opening international hospitals for the treatment of specific diseases such as cancer, tumors.

"There are already some investors who are interested in this," he said.

Second, diversification to sectors outside tourism such as marine and aquaculture, as well as agriculture. Then the sustainability of water resources and waste management.

"Both of those things are key to the sustainability of the tourism industry in Bali. Finally, we again remind all that we are united to comply with health protocols and also work together to improve the economic sector in Bali," he said.