Golden Visa expected to increase investment in Labuan Bajo: Minister

Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggar (ANTARA) - Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno hopes the Golden Visa policy launched by President Joko Widodo will increase investment in the tourism and creative economy sectors in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

"Some have also asked us for the Labuan Bajo second home visa. These are foreign tourists planning to stay longer in Labuan Bajo. The concept is a five- to 10-year residence permit with several requirements. The golden visa can roll out more investment to Labuan Bajo," he stated on Wednesday (August 7).

The minister is also upbeat that investment in Labuan Bajo would later open business opportunities and create jobs for the local community.

His side is encouraging investment that arises from this policy to be beneficial for the development of the economic ecosystem, digitalization, or several aspects of green economy growth.

"As of today, there are almost 500 people interested. Learning from the experiences of countries that have previously offered golden visas, the impact on investment is very large," Uno stated.

Related news: Golden Visa facility should be selectively offered to foreigners: Govt

The minister revealed that several parties have applied for Golden Visas to several regions in Indonesia, including Labuan Bajo.

His side would also assist investors interested in investing in Labuan Bajo with the Golden Visa policy.

Earlier, President Widodo, in his remarks at the launch of the Golden Visa at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Jakarta, stated that the government launched the Golden Visa service to provide convenience for foreign nationals in investing and working in Indonesia.

"It is expected to attract more quality tourists to invest while staying in Indonesia," he remarked.

The president also emphasized that the Golden Visa is only given to good-quality tourists. The government will closely monitor those foreigners' contributions to the country.

"We cannot let people who endanger state security pass or people who do not provide national benefits," he added.