Jakarta. The 42nd ASEAN Summit is close approaching and preparations are underway in Labuan Bajo, a fishing town in East Nusa Tenggara.

Leaders of Southeast Asian countries will gather in Labuan Bajo next month. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo recently made a visit to Labuan Bajo to inspect venues and hotels. According to Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, Indonesia is paying a great deal of attention to the summit.

"All preparations are on the right track. Hopefully, the huge task of hosting the 42nd summit as the ASEAN chair runs smoothly," Retno said in a recorded video statement.

On May 10-11, Labuan Bajo will host 8 ASEAN-related meetings, five of which are set to take place on the first day. Jokowi is scheduled to lead seven meetings. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will chair the BIMP-EAGA talks. The BIMP-EAGA is a sub-regional initiative that focuses on the less developed areas in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Komodo Airport, which is located close to Labuan Bajo, is gearing up to welcome domestic and international arrivals.

The airport will have a baggage conveyor belt that is specifically assigned for international arrivals, as well as an immigration facility for the guests.

“We will continue to work on the airport preparations, including signage for the 42nd ASEAN Summit," Retno said.

ASEAN chair Indonesia sees the summit as a great opportunity to promote Labuan Bajo’s tourism.

"The president’s instruction is crystal clear. We need to uphold great hospitality and comfort for all of our guests that will be participating at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Labuan Bajo,” Retno said.

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