Minister Of Transportation Optimistic Bali Maritime Tourism Hub Can Boost The National Economy

Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi. (Photo: Doc. Ministry of Transportation)

Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi said the progress of the Bali Maritime Tourism Hub (BMTH) development was quite good and significant.

He is optimistic that the development of BMTH will have a positive impact and can boost the national economy.

"I see that the progress of BMTH development is good and significant. Hopefully, this infrastructure development can run according to plan, can immediately operate optimally, and in the end it can improve the economy, both regionally and nationally," he said in an official statement, Sunday, August 11.

Budi believes that the completion of BMTH will grow the tourism ecosystem in Bali and increase foreign and domestic tourist visits to Benoa Port.

BMTH is expected to be a magnet for foreign tourists through cruises sailing in Bali waters.

"In 2023, Benoa Port managed to juxtapose 48 cruises with more than 77,000 passengers. With the current development, I am sure the number will increase," he said.

Budi said that the construction of BMTH had a significant impact on the operation of the Benoa Port.

According to him, currently several large cruises with a length of more than 300 meters have started to dock at this port.

"It is hoped that Benoa Port can become a home port for several international cruises, as the construction of BMTH has been completed," he said.

For information, BMTH is a National Strategic Project (PSN) launched to develop Benoa Port to become a leading maritime tourism hub.

BMTH will integrate the tourism, port and entertainment sectors, in order to create a multiplier effect for economic growth.

In addition, as a marine tour in the country, BMTH is also connected to domestic and international tourism routes.