JAKARTA - The issue of illegal levies (extortion) in tourist areas has returned to the public's attention, especially after several cases emerged in a number of popular locations.
The government emphasizes the importance of providing protection for tourists by creating a safe, comfortable, and free traveling atmosphere from illegal practices.
Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Ni Luh Puspa, emphasized that all parties must work together to ensure that there is no more extortion in tourist destinations. According to him, an orderly tourism environment is the key to the success of the sustainable tourism sector.
"It is our responsibility together to present a destination that provides a sense of security and pleasure for tourists. Extortion practices should not exist, whatever the reason," said Ni Luh as quoted by ANTARA.
In an online meeting with tourism stakeholders in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) and Southwest Sumba Provinces, he highlighted the increase in the number of tourists that must be balanced with better governance, including taking action against disturbing extortion practices.
Ni Luh conveyed full support from the central government for local governments and law enforcement officials in an effort to provide education and law enforcement to extortionists so that similar incidents do not happen again.
"Prevention efforts must be put forward, especially through an educational approach to children and the community around the destination," he said.
The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy will also continue to establish synergies with the local tourism office to provide guidance for residents in managing destinations and building tourism awareness.
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He added that community involvement in the tourism ecosystem is very important. Through training and empowerment, citizens can benefit economically from the growth of this sector.
No less important, according to Ni Luh, tourists also need to get an understanding of local culture, local traditions, and social conditions of society in order to create interactions that are more respectful of each other.
The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy also appealed to tourists to distribute aid, both in the form of goods and money, to be carried out through the official village or local community so that the distribution is more focused and does not have a negative impact.
This is an important moment to change the face of tourism in Sumba and NTT to make it more quality and inclusive. We support increasing the capacity of local human resources, including through digital training and community-based management," said Ni Luh.
Meanwhile, the Regent of Southwest Sumba, Ratu Ngadu Bonu Wulla, conveyed his commitment to follow up on the extortion incident that had occurred, and ensured that this would not happen again. He also emphasized that the community condemns the action as a violation of the law and customary values.
In the discussion which took place on May 20, 2025, residents of Kampung Adat Ratenggaro also expressed hope that the government would continue to provide support in the form of training and assistance in welcoming tourists and managing tourist attractions professionally.
As a concrete step, the public and the government agreed to install information boards that include official tariffs for tourism activities such as entry fees, horse riding, and photo services. Enforcement of this rule will involve the police, TNI, and Satpol PP.
Previously, the practice of extortion was experienced by YouTube content creator "Jajago Around Indonesia" when visiting tourist areas in Southwest Sumba, including in the Ratenggaro Traditional Village. This incident went viral and triggered a strong reaction from the public.
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