Rain Charmer is Local Wisdom, Think it as a Cultural Attraction: Uno

TheIndonesia.id - Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno said that the Mandalika 2022 MotoGP rain charmer was part of the local wisdom attraction. The rain charmer named Rara Isti Wulandari was being discussed worldwide for her action at Mandalika Circuit.

"This was part of the attraction of local wisdom, a culture that can be the main attraction. But of course, God wants the race to be delayed by one hour and it can be done. This is a memorable moment not only for racers but also for the Indonesian people," said Uno, quoted from an official statement, Monday, March 21, 2022.

The Mandalika 2022 MotoGP was held by Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit for three days from March 18 to 20, 2022. However, at the peak of the implementation, precisely ahead of the MotoGP class race, heavy rain poured down the circuit area which forced the race to be postponed.

"Earlier we saw that the race was running smoothly, but of course, we are also very grateful because the rain that had delayed the start finally subsided thanks to the prayers of everyone and finally we saw a very interesting race," said Uno.

The minister said that when it rains, the organizer immediately coordinates. And after looking at the available data, it was decided that the race was postponed for one1 hour. Apart from a wet track, what is worried about is the visibility of the racers.

"So frankly, when it rains, we coordinate to ensure that this event must comply with the safety rules for the riders and also the safety of the entire crew," said Uno.

In the middle of the rain, there was one moment that caught our attention, when President Joko Widodo came down to Pit Lane and greeted the people to give them encouragement. "At that time, the President made the decision to continue the procession of the national anthem Indonesia Raya. And Alhamdulillah, after being sung, the rain started to subside and the race could start," said Uno.

"So I think strategic decisions like that will finally bring certainty, clarity, and also give encouragement to the organizers that we are committed to holding this event," he said.

Finally, the rain stopped and the organizers decided that the race could start again. The racers also admitted that they were impressed with this condition.

"I spoke with several drivers, this was their first experience. Besides the first time racing at the Mandalika track, but also racing in rainy conditions like this. This is a very memorable experience for them," he said.