Universitas Gadjah Mada has built a cooperation with three regencies in Indonesia in education, research, and community service for regional development, particularly in tourism.
The cooperation is established with Aceh Tamiang, Bangka Tengah, and Banggai regencies.
Regent of Aceh Tamiang, Mursil, S.H., M.Kn., said the regency had big tourism potential, unfortunately, not many tourists had visited it due to the remote location.
“With this cooperation, hopefully the potential in Aceh Tamiang can be developed so as to draw visitors to come,” he said on Friday (13/7) in a remarks after the signing of the cooperation in the UGM Conference Room.
This was shared by Bangka Tengah Secretary, Drs. Sugiyanto, M.Si., representing the Regent, Iir. H. Ibnu Saleh, M.M. He was hoping for UGM to develop the tourism potential of the regency.
“Presently, the development has been done sporadically, lacking of concept that we need a Regional Tourism Master Plan. This cooperation is expected not just to develop our tourism potential but also other sectors,” he said.
Muh Romli Tongko, Head of Planning and Development of Banggai, representing Regent, Ir. H. Herwin Yatim, M.M., also expected the cooperation would help the tourism development in his regency. Currently, Banggai regency has a diverse of natural potential that has yet to be developed.
“Hopefully, this cooperation is expected to be able to develop Banggai to get more advanced, especially in tourism sector,” he said.
Vice-Rector for Cooperation and Alumni of UGM, Dr. Paripurna, S.H., M.Hum., LL.M., welcomed the cooperation with the three institutions. In his views, the regencies have immense tourism potential.
“Aceh Tamiang, Bangka Tengah, and Banggai have great tourism, culture, natural tourism, and culinary potential,” he said.
Paripurna said UGM was ready to form a synergy and collaborate for regional development.
“We are ready to form a synergy in order to develop the regional potential,” he said.