President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo and First Lady Ibu Iriana Joko Widodo Wednesday (05/10) invited ASEAN leaders and their spouses to witness the beauty of East Nusa Tenggara on board traditional pinisi boat.
The leaders and spouses expressed their excitement for the opportunity to taking a break after attending the 42nd ASEAN Summit, at Meruorah Hotel, Labuan Bajo.
President of the Philippines Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. told the press that this activity is a great idea to refresh the mind after a long work day.
“As promised by President Joko Widodo, we came aboard to the ship and we didn’t think anymore too much about economy and security problems. That’s absolutely right; it’s a very good idea to clear your head so you can go back to work refreshed,” President Marcos Jr. said.
He added that Indonesia set a high standard for the organization of ASEAN Summit.
In the meantime, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong said that he enjoyed the trip on pinisi boat.
“It’s very nice, calm, and smooth. We’re looking forward to seeing the sunset. I am very happy indeed to see the sun. I think it should be quite spectacular,” he said.
The Prime Minister went on to say that this is the first time to visit East Nusa Tenggara province. He also said that he will visit the province someday in the future for snorkeling and watching Komodo dragon.
“I think many tourists will visit here, particularly with new hotels,” he added.
Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei Darussalam also expressed his appreciation for the event.
“We’re happy and it’s the first time we are here in Labuan Bajo. We’re very happy to be on this boat. It’s something different than the Summit. I know Bali is very well-known and Labuan Bajo is not as famous as Bali yet. So I think this Summit will attract more people to come here,” he said.
Source: setkab
