08 May 2023 | 08:50 AM UTC
Indonesia: ASEAN Summit and related meetings to take place in Labuan Bajo May 9-11
Indonesia to host ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Labuan Bajo May 9-11. Tight security, localized traffic disruptions likely.
Event
Indonesia will host the 42nd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and related meetings at Meruorah Hotel, Ayana Resort Hotel, and Bintang Flores Hotel in Labuan Bajo May 9-11. Leaders and delegations from 10 member nations and Timor Leste are scheduled to attend the summit. More than 2,500 foreign delegates and journalists will likely participate in the event. Organizers have designated Bintang Flores Hotel as the media center for the summit.
Authorities will bolster security in Labuan Bajo, particularly around summit venues and other sites hosting official events. Officials will deploy more than 2,600 police personnel in Labuan Bajo during the summit as a precaution. Checkpoints and random security checks are likely, particularly on roads leading to Meruorah Hotel, Ayana Resort Hotel, and Bintang Flores Hotel. Road closures and traffic delays are likely in the vicinity of the event venues, particularly during the arrivals and departures of delegates. Police will probably impose temporary roadblocks and redirect traffic to facilitate high-level motorcades. Localized business disruptions are likely.
Attendees will probably arrive and depart via Komodo Airport (LBJ). Increased security at LBJ during the summit may lead to possible congestion and delays in clearing customs and security screenings.
Protests are possible in the lead-up to and during the summit. Security forces will likely monitor any demonstrations that materialize and may attempt to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Isolated clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators may block and/or march along roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Police could conduct mass arrests if protesters refuse to disperse when ordered to do so.
Advice
If operating in Labuan Bajo, consider avoiding event venues if not attending. Allow additional time for transport May 9-11. Carry proper identification documents. Adhere to instructions from authorities.
