Ugimba offers spectacular views of its surroundings such as the Kemabu River, Nabu River, and several endemic species of animals and plants such as Dingisco and local orchids.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The Papua province has offered to promote Ugimba Village in Intan Jaya District and Carstensz Pyramid as tourist destinations in a bid to empower the local communities.

Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Mari Elka Pangestu launched the two tourist sites in Jakarta on Tuesday as the leading tourism destinations in the province.

"These leading destinations were expected to empower the communities around the tourist attractions that play an important role in the implementation of the sustainable tourism program," the minister affirmed.

According to Pangestu, the establishment of the two destinations was part of the ministrys program to increase the contribution of tourism to boost social welfare, particularly for those living in the villages.

"The establishment of Ugimba Village as a tourism destination will play a key role in empowering the communities and conserving the Carstensz Pyramid, which is well-known as the only area in the tropical region to be covered in snow throughout the year," she stated.

Regent of Intan Jaya Natalis Taboni, who was also present during the launch event, noted that the common climbing track of Carstensz, which comprises the Sugapa-Ugimba-Carstensz route, allows the climbers to visit Ugimba before they commence to conquer the peak.

It is expected that it will encourage the development of facilities for the Ugimba residents, he stated.

"All this time, Ugimba residents have helped tourists from all over the world such as the United States, Russia, and Germany to climb the Carstensz Mountain," he remarked.

He promised to encourage the development of Ugimba as a tourist destination.

The establishment of Ugimba Village as a tourist site was initiated by the local residents with the contribution of the Somatua Foundation, which submitted the demand to the government.

Ugimba offers spectacular views of its surroundings such as the Kemabu River, Nabu River, and several endemic species of animals and plants such as Dingisco and local orchids.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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