ALOR AND ON....

As it is now events in Alor will not start until August 9th. From we have witnessed, there a lot of things going on in the public square where most of the events will take place.

Sail Indonesia's participants have been invited to take part in the Opening Ceremony which will be followed later in the evening with Gala Dinner. Usually Gala Dinner accompanied and followed by traditional dances from different parts of Alor.

One of the major factors which have contributed to the success of Sail Indonesia Rally is active roles play by the local Governments. They are not only staging events where among other things, showcasing their traditional arts performance which otherwise we would not have the opportunity  to witness it. Working within different agencies under their umbrella, they also provide security and making procedure as simple as possible. Without their cooperation it would be impossible for us to do or job effectively.

This is one of major reasons that Sail Indonesia only appoint our route after we make sure that we have the local Government cooperation. We also only depend heavily on the feedback we have gotten from previous Sail Indonesia participants. Of course, our personal experience play a big part on it.

At the moment the fleet (mostly) is in Alor. Some are considering going on unscheduled stops which within their right, provided they are on the list of their CAIT. We fully respect that.

Due to the fact that they will be no support either by us or by local Government it causes us great concern. There have been many instances that where some problems arose where we were unable to do much of anything due to our limitations. Of course we hope that everything would go well.

The Northern Route proven to be a great success last year (mostly based on the feedback we got). From all indications, this year would not be different. We are fully understand the challenge in making about two hundred miles passage from Alor to Wakatobi, but it is safe to say that your hardship will be fully rewarded.

I will be at every stops along the appointed route (except Medana bay) to provide assistance whenever necessary. Hopefully I will be able to fulfil my responsibility.