Jakarta. The 2017 Alor Marine Festival was held in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, from Friday (17/11) to Sunday.

The festival featured a series of activities including sailing, rowing and a boat decoration contest with a total prize of more than Rp 10 million ($740).

Alor's district head Aman Djobo said the festival could create a momentum for the local administration to speed up development in Alor.

According to Tourism Ministry data, a total of 1,577 tourists visited Alor last year.

"It's a challenge for the local administration to improve tourism in Alor. We'll have to do it gradually in collaboration with relevant agencies," Aman said.

Esthy Reko Astuti, the ministry's tourism development deputy, said the event should enhance Alor's reputation as a marine tourism destination.

A total of 20 out of 50 diving sites in Alor have been declared as some of the world’s best diving spots. Its Pantar Strait Marine Park is often favorably compared to snorkeling and diving sports in the Caribbean.

Tourism Minister Arief Yahya said the festival should help Alor turn itself into a new tourist destination in East Nusa Tenggara.