Tour de EnTeTe Ignites NTT Tourism and Economy
International cycling race set for 2025 to showcase islands’ beauty and culture.
East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) is gearing up for a major international cycling event, the Tour de EnTeTe, from September 10-21, 2025. The race aims to spotlight the province’s diverse tourism offerings and invigorate its creative economy.
Showcasing Natural and Cultural Riches
Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena revealed the ambitious plan, emphasizing that the event transcends a mere sporting competition. “This event is not just a stage for the longest world-class cycling race in the country, but it will also showcase NTT’s tourism, cultural, and culinary potential to the world,” he stated. The race will traverse scenic routes across Timor, Sumba, and Flores, integrating the region’s natural splendor and cultural heritage with the thrill of sport.
Local Economies Get a Boost
At each stage, organizers are collaborating with local communities to present unique cultural performances and exhibitions featuring micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative, a joint effort by the NTT provincial government, local regents, and supported by national ministries, seeks to stimulate economic activity. Hundreds of MSMEs are expected to participate, benefiting from the influx of racers and spectators.
The Tour de EnTeTe will feature over 100 professional racers from Indonesia and abroad, divided into 20 teams. Countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, Japan, and China have shown interest. This event is a fantastic opportunity to promote sports tourism in East Nusa Tenggara! #TourDeEnTeTe #NTT #SportsTourism #Indonesia
— World Cycling News (@CyclingNewsNet) September 5, 2024
“We want to develop sports tourism and boost the NTT economy. Each stage, every night, will feature cultural performances and involve community participation.”
—Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, Governor of East Nusa Tenggara
The governor further elaborated on the goal: “We want to develop sports tourism and boost the NTT economy. Each stage, every night, will feature cultural performances and involve community participation.” Local leaders are reportedly finalizing preparations to ensure the event’s success in both sporting and economic aspects. In 2023, Indonesia saw a 40% increase in international tourist arrivals compared to the previous year, highlighting the potential for such events to drive growth (Source: Statistics Indonesia, 2024).
Race Route and Participants
The Tour de EnTeTe is slated to include over 100 professional cyclists from 20 teams, with 30 riders from Indonesia and 70 from international teams. Nations expressing interest include Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. The demanding 10-stage route will span the islands of Timor, Sumba, and Flores, commencing in Kupang City and concluding in the popular destination of Labuan Bajo.
Detailed Stage Locations
The itinerary for the 2025 Tour de EnTeTe includes:
- Kupang City to Kefamenanu
- Kefamenanu to Atambua (via Wini and Motaain)
- Atambua to SoE
- Tanarara to Waingapu (Loop)
- Waingapu to Waibakul to Waikabubak to Tambolaka
- Larantuka (Tanjung Bunga) to Maumere
- Maumere to Ende
- Ende to Bajawa
- Bajawa to Ruteng
- Ruteng to Labuan Bajo
“Everything is in the preparation stage, and we will finalize the details soon,” Governor Laka Lena concluded, expressing confidence in the meticulous planning underway.
