After 10 years of leadership, Regent Mayor of Wakatobi, Mr. Hugua, prepares to bid farewell. In five months, Hugua will hand over his leadership to his successor, leaving behind a strong legacy in sustainable environment and eco-tourism in the exotic Wakatobi Islands, Indonesia.
Recalling his first encounter with UCLG ASPAC in 2011, Hugua shared some good impressions about the Organization. He was also pleased that Wakatobi successfully hosted the latest Council Meeting of UCLG ASPAC last September.
“It was a dream came true for me… to have 187 leaders and representatives from throughout Asia-Pacific visiting Wakatobi, a regency that is only 11 year-old, ” Hugua said during his recent visit to UCLG ASPAC Secretariat. “Having tourists (to visit Wakatobi) is a common thing, but having an international-scale meeting – at the Asia-Pacific level… well, that was the first time for us.”
Wakatobi, located in eastern Indonesia, has long been recognized among divers as one of the world’s best dive sites as it offers a high diversity of coral, rich in marine life. The Wakatobi National Park has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 2005. The experience of hosting an international event has become important for Wakatobi that aims to develop its MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) industry. The regency still of course has some challenges, such as in infrastructure and transportation, but Hugua believed that Wakatobi’s rich biodiversity, beautiful nature and non-polluted environment make it different from other big and famous places in the world. Hosting the UCLG ASPAC Council Meeting has encouraged Wakatobi to make improvements. With VIP guests such as governors and mayors coming to the region, hotels, the culinary industry and the local people have realized that they have potential and they can do better.
“I feel that ever since I have involved in the activities of UCLG ASPAC, the wisdom of ‘think global act local’ becomes a reality,” Hugua said. “Thanks to our involvement at UCLG ASPAC that Wakatobi has created plenty of buzz at the global level. Being rich in biodiversity is one thing, but it is our decision to go global that has made us famous worldwide,” Hugua said.
Despite his departure from his office, Hugua kept a promise to continue his efforts for Wakatobi and his support for UCLG ASPAC. He will still provide his input and help strengthen the position of Wakatobi, nationally and globally.
“What will change is just the leadership – the system will remain the same,” he said, adding that Wakatobi had a Long-term Development Planning that included an active involvement in UCLG ASPAC.
Being the first mayor of Wakatobi and having led the regency for two consecutive periods, Hugua, for sure, will be the reference for the future leaders of the regency. UCLG ASPAC is looking forward to more collaborations with the next mayor of Wakatobi!
