JAYAPURA - The Papua Provincial Government will begin to encourage the development of a digital-based tourism sector to increase Regional Original Income (PAD) in the local area.

Additionally, the Papua Provincial Government will develop a travel guide application to help attract more domestic and foreign tourists.

"Because Papua's tourism sector has extraordinary natural beauty and unique cultural wealth."

"So it must be used to improve the local economy and cultural preservation," explained Gerzon Jitmau, Functional Officer of Policy Analyst, Associate Expert for Government and Special Autonomy in Jayapura, Monday.

According to him, it is time for the Papua Provincial Government to encourage the usage of digitalization in the tourism sector. There is inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Papua.

Not only tourism, he continued, the Papua Provincial Government also needs to develop digitalization in other sectors, through Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The digitalization of MSMEs will allow business actors in Papua to reach a wider market because customers are not only domestic but also international as a target.

"For example, in the cultural sector, digitalization can be an effective tool to document, preserve, and promote Papua's cultural heritage."

"The development of digital education platforms will allow access to education which is more equitable and quality for all Papuans," he said.

He added that the Islamic economy also needs digital-based development because it can be a promising alternative to encourage financial inclusion and improve people's welfare through digitalization. ***