Yudhoyono Expected to Helm Komodo Campaign

VIVAnews - Only 22 days left for voters to win Komodo Island in the New7Wonders of Nature contest. On Friday, November 11, 2011, seven winners will be announced. The title of 'natural wonders of the world' will be pinned on the champions. They will be immortalized in history, written millions of times in brochures, reviews, or travel guides.

Komodo candidacy team (P2K) chairperson, Emmy Hafild, called on all the Indonesian people, including President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, to support Komodo Island. "In other countries, the presidents are directly involved in the campaign. We may take a glance at South Korea and the Philippines," she told VIVAnews.

In addition to garner more support for Komodo, "if the President could interpose himself and lead the SMS promotion, it will also stand for the government’s attitude," she said.

Following the conflict with New7Wonders committee, the Culture and Tourism Ministry decided to call off Komodo's participation in the event. However, according to Emmy, in spite of this, Komodo is not yet removed from the list of 28 finalists. "The Komodo Island is still on the list. Do not waste the chance," she said.

The supporters of Komodo have appointed former Vice President Jusuf Kalla as the ambassador of Komodo Island. Although the presence of Kalla could boost supports for the island, the role of government is still expected. However, "reaching the president is incredibly difficult. We have sent a letter to the vice president but there has been no reply," she said.

Compared to other countries, the Komodo campaign is not fully set up. "In other countries, various ways to gain supports are carried out. South Korea is powered by numerous sponsors. We are completely dependent on voters," said Emmy.

However, she said that some mobile operators are supporting the Komodo campaign. "By removing SMS rates to support the Komodo, millions of incoming SMS are recorded every day," she said.

This is a picture of how other countries do the campaign for their representatives. As published by New7Wonders website, South Korean President Lee Myung Bak helms the campaign for Jeju Island. "This will enhance the image of the nation, more tourists will visit Korea," Lee said in his official Twitter.

A national committee was formed to mobilize support for Jeju. Led by former Prime Minister, Chung Un-chan, Korea also takes advantage of K-pop’s fame to increase support.

Meanwhile in the Philippines, the government, including President Nonoy Aquino has called on all Filipinos to support the underground river, Puerto Princesa.

The support is also expected of Filipinos who live around the world. The Philippines’ embassies, consulates, and offices throughout the world are also mandated to garner votes.