ASEAN Leaders Find Calm and Wellness by Boarding the Pinisi Boat in Labuan Bajo

INTI,- President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo invited ASEAN leaders and their companions to enjoy the beauty of Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) by boarding a traditional Indonesian sailboat, called a pinisi, on Wednesday (10/05/2023). The ASEAN leaders and their companions appeared enthusiastic and happy to unwind after a full day of meetings at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Hotel Meruorah, Labuan Bajo.

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed that the activity was an excellent idea to clear the mind after a day's work.

"As promised by President Widodo, we come to the boat, and we don't think about the economy and security issues, and that's absolutely right. It's a great idea to clear your mind and refresh yourself, so you can come back to work," said President Marcos.

"And romantic!" added his wife, Louise Aranetta-Marcos, who was sitting beside him.

"It's beautiful, the scenery is beautiful, so we are very concerned because when it's our turn to host ASEAN, we have to do better than this. Indonesia has set very high standards, we have to compete," added President Marcos.

Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also appeared to enjoy the journey aboard the pinisi. He was thrilled to see the sunset.

"Oh, it's so enjoyable, so far it's been very calm, very smooth, and we're looking forward to seeing the sunset. I'm very happy we could see the sunset. I think it's quite spectacular," said PM Lee.

PM Lee stated that this was his first visit to NTT. He had seen photos of the region's beauty, but seeing it in person was even better.

He also said that he plans to return to NTT in the future for diving and to see the Komodo dragons.

"I think there will be many tourists who would want to come as well, especially with the new hotels that are coming," he added.

Apparently, PM Lee was not the only one who enjoyed the journey and planned to return to Labuan Bajo. Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei Darussalam, who was also aboard the pinisi, said he thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

"We're happy, and it's our first time in Labuan Bajo, so we're happy to be on this boat and see a different side of the ASEAN Summit. Yes, it's very good, very relaxing, especially after a long day of meetings," said Prince Abdul Mateen.

"I know Bali is very famous, but Labuan Bajo is not as famous as Bali. I think this ASEAN Summit will attract more people to come," he added. ***. Hans