RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Flores is seeking to broaden its appeal beyond the world-famous Komodo National Park by showcasing sustainable, community-driven tourism experiences at one of Indonesia’s leading eco-tourism events.

The Labuan Bajo Flores Authority Implementing Agency (BPOLBF) promoted sustainable tourism villages in Flores during the 4th edition of the Meru Eco Tourism Week, held at the Bali Beach Convention Center in Sanur, Bali, on Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Acting BPOLBF President Director Andhy MT Marpaung said the participation formed part of the agency’s efforts to strengthen Labuan Bajo-Flores’ position as a destination that prioritizes sustainability through community-based tourism development, environmental conservation, and local economic empowerment.

“We promoted three tourism villages: Warloka Tourism Village, Wae Lolos Tourism Village, and Rangko Hamlet in Tanjung Boleng Village,” Marpaung said in a statement received in Kupang on Sunday, May 31, as quoted by Antara.

According to him, the three destinations offer authentic nature- and culture-based tourism experiences while supporting environmental preservation efforts.

BPOLBF views its participation in the forum as a strategic step to introduce the diversity of Flores’ tourism attractions beyond the Komodo National Park area.

“Our participation in The Meru Eco Tourism Week is a strategic effort to introduce a new face of Flores tourism that is more diverse, sustainable, and community-based,” he said.

In addition to promoting tourism villages, BPOLBF presented alternative travel experiences across Flores, including the Nine Summits Flores trekking program, cross-island travel packages, and the development of Catholic religious tourism initiatives currently being prepared in collaboration with several dioceses across Flores.

Marpaung said these alternative destinations and travel products are expected to distribute visitor flows more evenly throughout Flores, encourage longer stays, and motivate travelers to explore a wider range of locations across the island.

Through its participation in the event, BPOLBF hopes that more tourists, industry stakeholders, and strategic partners will become familiar with Flores’ sustainable tourism potential and support the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage as part of building a high-quality and globally competitive destination. ***