Tourist Attractions In West Sumatra Remain Open But Residents Are Prohibited From Holding New Year Celebrations

Head of the West Sumatra Tourism Office, Novrial. (AMONG)

W Sumatra - Tourist attractions in West Sumatra (West Sumatra) will remain open during the Christmas and New Year's 2022 momentum. However, the implementation of health protocols is carried out strictly and monitored by each district/city.

"The PPKM level 3 has not been implemented, therefore tourist attractions in West Sumatra can still be opened. But they must implement strict health protocols," said Head of the West Sumatra Tourism Office, Novrial in Padang, Antara, Monday, November 13.

He said supervision for the implementation of the protocol at tourist attractions was left to each district and city. However, the West Sumatra Tourism Office will also review several destinations that are considered vulnerable.

"We have sent letters to the regents and mayors regarding this matter. With good coordination and concern from all parties, we are optimistic that the potential for the spread of COVID-19 in tourist attractions can be minimized," he said.

Currently the COVID-19 pandemic in West Sumatra is very sloping. The addition of new cases is relatively under control and there are even a few recorded daily cases of 0.

However, vigilance against the spread of the virus, especially during the holidays and welcoming the new year, must still be increased because the information is that there is currently another new variant of COVID-19. Regarding New Year's celebrations at tourist attractions, Novrial emphasized that it was not justified because of the potential for crowds to occur.

"Traveling is allowed, but crowds are not allowed. Therefore, celebrating the new year at tourist attractions is not recommended," he said.

One of the managers of tourist attractions in West Sumatra, Zola Pandu appreciated the government's policy not to close tourist attractions during the Nataru momentum.

"We will definitely follow the government's direction to implement health protocols, as long as tourist attractions are not closed," he said.