Jakarta (Antara) – Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno said that he will coordinate with the National Police chief regarding the enforcement of Article 424 of the Criminal Code, which lays down regulations regarding intoxicating drinks and substances.
"Because this also includes the hotel restaurant and cafe sector, and this will also impact tourist destinations, and we will make sure that Article 424, we will coordinate with law enforcement agencies, especially the 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 more article that is not a complaint offense, what has received little attention, Article 424 is about alcohol, this is what tourists can later be targets of," Paris said.
Uno also stressed that his administration will coordinate with law enforcement agencies so that tourists' concerns can be addressed and tourism activities are not disrupted. "We are a nation that values guests, like a king, our red carpet has been rolled out for tourists," he said.
His administration has also assured travel agents and tour operators that their tours will be safe, comfortable, and well-received.
Minister Uno said that he had met with the members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia on Tuesday (December 6, 2022) and held meetings with investors for two consecutive days to discuss some articles in the draft Criminal Code.
During the meetings, he highlighted the vast opportunities for investment in the country's tourism and creative economy sector despite concerns over several articles in the draft, one of which prohibits live-in relationships.