The Indonesian Tourism Minister gives tsunami aftermath for the tourism industry

In several parts of southern coast of West Java and Central Java especially in Pangandaran Beach, a tsunami occurred and destroyed many houses and other public and tourist facilities such as guest houses, hotels, cottages, restaurants, and shops. The tsunami was previously triggered by several strong jolts, one of them recorded to have reached 6.8 on the Richter scale at 03.19 pm. on western Indonesia time zone. The epicenter was around 355 kilometers from Jakarta, at 10 kilometers beneath the sea. As of July 18th, 2006, at 1.30 p.m. western Indonesia time zone, total casualties have reached 197 people from different coastal towns in West Java and Central Java. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono have ordered all the associated ministers and local government to immediately execute strategic steps.

We understand the degree of the loss is inestimable especially at this very moment of uncertainty. However, we would like to ask every element of tourism stakeholders to work in concert, supporting our efforts in coordinating with all related parties to undertake this matter. We have assigned our commission right away to observe the affected areas to gather all the necessary information to formulate the best way to rescue, rehabilitate, and recover the entire situation, especially the tourism sector that plays important role in some of the affected areas. We would do our best within our capacity to lessen the burden from the victim. Like in Yogyakarta, we have implored the national bank to re-arrange any settlements made with the affected tourism businesses.