REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, SEMARANG -- Ministry of Tourism decided that the celebration of the arrival of Admiral Cheng Ho in Semarang to become national annual tourism event. The event that took place over two days was expected to be better in the next year.

"I wish the celebration could be better, by bringing in a professional choreographer, so that there can be a big parade choreography,” said Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya, some times ago in Semarang.

The celebration of Admiral Cheng Ho’s arrival is conducted every 6th month, 30th, in Chinese calendar. The celebration was always crowded by the Chinese community in Semarang as well as visitors. Although a Muslim figure, Cheng Ho was still respected by Chinese. Hence his visit was always commemorated every year.

As a form of government support, Arief say, promotional materials of Admiral Cheng Ho's arrival will also be published in the country branding, that is promoted to seven countries from July to December 2015.

"The celebration of the arrival of Admiral Cheng Ho next year will be a big icon of national tourism, especially in China segmentation," he added.

Arief Yahya said, tourism is a cultural industry. Besides there are cultural values, there are also economic values. Therefore he requested that the industry should not be stopped in a celebration of culture.

"Moreover, Semarang has other cultures, such as culinary and others," said Arief.

Head of Culture and Tourism of Central Java, Ariwibowo Prasetyo, welcomed the celebration as national tourism agenda. He also will develop various culture performances existed in Semarang.

"We've been asked by Minister of Tourism to be able to build all the destinations that have international appeal," he said.

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