Indonesian President Kicks Off Integrated Tourist Zone Project in Bintan

Antara 26 Feb 11;

Bintang, Riau Islands (ANTARA News) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Saturday inaugurated the construction of the first-phase of an integrated tourist zone at Teluk Sebong, Sebong Lagoi village, Bintan District, Riau Islands Province.

The head of state named the new integrated tourist zone "Pesona Lagoi Bintang" (Lagoi Bintang Charm).

Yudhoyono in his speech hoped that the tourist area could become like Singapore or even better.

"Let`s develop this area to become an integrated economic zone," the president, who was accompanied by First Lady Ani Yudhoyono, said.

Among those present at the inauguration ceremony were Culture and Tourism Minister Jero Wacik, Riau Islands Governor Muhammad Sani, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Hatta Rajasa, Coordinating Minister for People`s Welfare Agung Laksono, Minister/State Secretary Sudi Silalahi, Transportation Minister Freddy Numberi, and Defense Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro.

In the first phase of its development process, "Pesona Lagoi Bintang" will be built on a plot of land measuring 338 hectares.

The project is being implemented by a consortium consisting of several companies including Malaysia-based Landmarks lifestyle company.

The developers will construct a water city resort in the area bought by Landmarks Berhad in 2006.

The integrated tourist zone will also include an international ferry terminal, a marine terminal, a marine aircraft terminal, a cruise ship area, and integrated immigration service office.

There will also be a water recreational area, shopping centers, hotels, amusement parks, villas, housing complexes, apartments, meeting halls, universities and hospitals.

The construction works of the project`s first phase is expected to be complected in 2015 and it will connect with other isles in Riau Islands Province.

Only a short ferry ride of about one-hour from Singapore, the Riau Islands represent an ideal and easily accessible destination for holiday makers.
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Editor: AA Ariwibowo