Whale hunting draws tourists

KUPANG, Southeast Sulawesi: More than 50 foreigners flock to Lamalera, a tiny islet at the tip of Lomblen Island, every year to witness whale hunting and slaughtering, Antara reported yesterday.

The news agency quoted Rafael Tapaona, a local fisherman, as saying that 130 whales have been caught and slaughtered in the last three years.

Rafael said fishermen trade their catch for tubers, corn, and other necessities.

Antara did not say the type of whales hunted or whether they were protected species.

To reach the island, visitors must take a boat from Lomblen, which operates only on Fridays, Rafael said. (10)