Jakarta (ANTARA) – Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno announced that he would work his efforts with National Police chief regarding the application of Article 424 of the Criminal Code, which lays the rules regarding alcohol consumption and drugs.
“Because this also impacts the cafes and restaurants in hotels sector, this will affect tourist destinations as well and we’ll make certain that the Article 424 is followed is adhered to, we will work with law enforcement agencies, and particularly Chief of Police,” he informed on Saturday.
He made the remarks in response to advocate Hotman Paris’ statement that tourism actors (hotels/restaurants), including the general public, should be cautious of Article 424.
“One other article, which is not a crime of complaint that has received very little attention is Article 424. It’s concerned with alcohol. This is the kind of thing that tourists could later be the target of,” Paris said.
Uno added that his administration will work in conjunction with police agencies to ensure that concerns of tourists are able to be addressed and that tourism activities do not get disrupted. “We are a country that is devoted to guests as a king. our red carpet is being rolled out to tourists,” he said.
The administration also has provided assurances to the tour companies and travel agencies that their trips are safe comfortable, enjoyable, and highly-appreciated.
Minister Uno stated that he been in contact with representatives of the American Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia on Tuesday (December 6 2022) and also held talks with the investors over two days to discuss a few aspects of the proposed Criminal Code.
In the course of the discussions He highlighted the huge potential for investing in the creative economy and tourism sector despite the concerns about a number of sections in the draft document which, among them, prohibit live-in relationships.
