The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) is looking forward with optimism to the year 2024, setting its sights on a target of 14.3 million foreign tourist arrivals, a significant increase from the previous year’s achievement which surpassed the set target of 8.5 million.
Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, expressed his hopes during a recent press conference, emphasizing the potential for growth if concerted efforts are made.
“With diligent work, collective effort, and continued prayers, we believe we can surpass the 14.3 million target and even reach the ambitious goal of 17 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2024,” he stated.
The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a remarkable increase in foreign tourist arrivals throughout 2023, reaching 11.6 million visits. This marked a significant surge compared to the previous year’s figures, highlighting a growing interest in Indonesia as a tourist destination.
However, despite the positive trajectory, the numbers still fall short of pre-pandemic levels, with 2019 recording a total of 16.1 million foreign tourist arrivals.
Ni Made Ayu Marthini, Deputy of Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, remains optimistic about the industry’s recovery, citing a national tourism recovery rate of 90%. She believes that with continued efforts, the tourism sector will fully rebound by 2024-2025.
To achieve the ambitious target for 2024, Kemenparekraf is strategizing to enhance connectivity by improving flight access to Indonesia. Additionally, measures will be taken to ensure safety, comfort, cleanliness, and health standards at tourist destinations, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Collaboration among stakeholders is deemed essential in achieving these targets. “By working together, we can create an environment conducive to tourism growth, ultimately leading to the realization of our goals,” Marthini emphasized.
The success of the tourism sector in 2023 can be attributed in part to various events and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) programs held throughout the year. These initiatives have helped stimulate interest and attract foreign visitors to Indonesia.
Looking ahead to 2024, as quoted from Bisnis, Maulana Yusran, Chairman of the Tourism and Creative Economy Sector of Apindo, acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead. With elections scheduled for February 14, 2024, there may be disruptions to the usual event calendar, potentially impacting tourist arrivals.
Despite these challenges, Yusran remains confident in Indonesia’s ability to compete in the global tourism market. He emphasizes the importance of creating favorable regulations and policies to support industry growth and maintain competitiveness.
As efforts continue to revitalize the tourism sector, Indonesia remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional experiences for visitors while fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in the industry.
