Pojok NTB — The MotoGP event at the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit is providing an opportunity to strengthen the tourism sector, expand business opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and encourage investment and economic growth in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).
The issue was highlighted during a press conference at the Indonesia Media Center on Saturday (October 10), featuring Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) Operations Director Troy Reza Warokka and Mandalika Grand Prix Association (MGPA) President Director Ananda Mikola.
Troy said the economic impact of hosting MotoGP should be assessed comprehensively, taking into account not only transactions within the festival area but also activities in hotels, restaurants, air transportation, MSMEs, and other tourism-related sectors.
According to him, MotoGP is part of broader efforts to strengthen Mandalika’s appeal as a sports tourism destination while generating wider economic activity for local communities.
“The economic impact of MotoGP should not be measured solely by activities within the festival area, but also by developments in the hotel, restaurant, transportation, MSME, and tourism sectors. We hope the benefits of hosting this event can be felt more widely by local communities and business operators,” Troy said.
He explained that the economic impact is monitored through coordination with various stakeholders, including surveys conducted before the event. Economic activity is expected to continue for two to three days after the event as tourists and air passengers continue to travel.
The festival activities accompanying MotoGP also provide a platform for local businesses to showcase their products and reach consumers. Around 600 MSMEs are participating in the festival, which also features performances by Indonesian singers Happy Asmara and Judika, along with various entertainment activities and prize giveaways.
The involvement of these MSMEs is expected to create business opportunities and broaden the economic benefits generated by spectators and tourists attending the international event.
Troy added that evaluations of previous editions are ongoing, particularly in the areas of promotion, event preparation, and supporting activities. These efforts are intended to enhance the destination’s appeal while maximizing the economic benefits for local communities.
Beyond the event itself, the development of the Mandalika area is focused on strengthening tourism facilities and accelerating investment realization. The development of resorts, hostels, restaurants, and other supporting facilities is considered essential to increasing the area’s appeal to tourists and business operators.
According to Troy, regional development must be accompanied by certainty in investment implementation to ensure that development plans proceed according to their targets. Local employment is also a key consideration in ensuring that communities benefit from the development.
“Regional development is not only about infrastructure, but also about the content, activities, and facilities that can enhance Mandalika’s appeal. Accelerating investment and improving the quality of human resources are essential to supporting the area’s growth,” he said.
He noted that hosting various international events can help stimulate tourism activity and investment. However, sustainable economic growth in the area requires time, continuity in development programs, and collaboration among all stakeholders.
Meanwhile, MGPA President Director Ananda Mikola emphasized the importance of synergy among the government, investors, business operators, media, and local communities in supporting Mandalika’s development.
According to Ananda, investment opportunities in Mandalika must be supported by the readiness of local human resources, adequate facilities, and a business environment conducive to sustainable economic activity.
“The success of regional development depends not only on capital, but also on human resource readiness and collaboration among all parties. Such synergy is necessary to ensure that investment delivers sustainable benefits for the area and its communities,” Ananda said.
Through MotoGP, tourism facility development, and accelerated investment, Mandalika is expected to strengthen its contribution to NTB’s economy. Supporting MSMEs and expanding local employment opportunities will also remain essential to ensuring that tourism growth delivers more widely shared benefits for the community.
