RRI.CO.ID, Kota Padang - The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism advised the expansion of infrastructure and hospitality development in the Mentawai Islands, West Sumatra to unlock the full potential of one of the world’s premier surfing destinations.

During a meeting in Padang, West Sumatra on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, outlined strategic recommendations to the West Sumatra Provincial Administration and Mentawai Regency to ensure the region can accommodate its growing international appeal.

A primary focus of the discussion was the logistical bottleneck at Mentawai Airport (BUM). Since its inauguration by President Jokowi in late 2023, the airport’s 1,500-meter runway has limited access to smaller ATR 72-600 aircraft.

Minister Widiyanti advocated for an immediate extension to facilitate larger commercial flights. "For example, Mentawai needs an additional 400 meters of runway so that more large aircraft can arrive," she said, as quoted by Antara.

Beyond transportation, the Minister emphasized the urgent need for a more robust hospitality sector. To maintain Mentawai’s reputation as the Land of the Sikerei, she urged stakeholders to accelerate the construction of premium hotels and resorts. These facilities are viewed as critical to ensuring visitor comfort, particularly as the region’s legendary surfing spots continue to draw global crowds.

Governor of West Sumatra, Mahyeldi, highlighted the unique competitive edge of the archipelago, which faces the open Indian Ocean. The Governor shared that the region boasts nearly 300 surfing points that remain a top draw for international travelers.

According to the Minister, during peak seasons, existing accommodations are consistently at full capacity. This demand is expected to spike further as the region prepares for a major international surfing event scheduled for July 2026.

Governor Mahyeldi confirmed that the Ministry’s directives would be integrated into the regional development strategy. By synchronizing infrastructure upgrades with private sector investment, the local government aims to ensure that tourism growth translates into tangible prosperity for the local community.

The follow-up actions are expected to involve various stakeholders to ensure that Mentawai’s development remains sustainable while acting as a powerful engine for regional economic growth. ***