Indonesia is stepping up efforts to rejuvenate its tourism sector, viewing it as a potential quick contributor to foreign exchange revenue. By restoring regional flights and simplifying event permits, the government is crafting strategies to attract a greater number of foreign tourists in the coming years.
Tourism remains a significant area of opportunity. While Thailand has achieved a remarkable 30 million foreign tourists annually, Indonesia, even before the pandemic, only managed to attract around 16 million. This gap underscores the need for bold initiatives to boost the country’s appeal as a global tourist destination.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, highlighted these challenges and opportunities during the Bisnis Indonesia Economy Outlook 2025 event in Jakarta on Tuesday (December 10, 2024). “This must certainly be encouraged,” he emphasized, as he outlined the government’s commitment to reviving the sector.
One major strategy involves reinstating regional flights, a move personally endorsed by President Prabowo Subianto. Airlangga explained that direct flights to key tourist destinations, such as Tanjung Kelayang in Bangka Belitung, could eliminate unnecessary stopovers in Jakarta. This, in turn, would make traveling within Indonesia more convenient and appealing to international visitors.
“…If tourists can come directly, without making two stops, promotional efforts will be significantly more effective,” Airlangga said.
Read also: 5 Recommended International Schools in Jakarta, Perfect for Expatriates’ Children!
This shift aims to create a seamless travel experience, ensuring that travelers can explore Indonesia’s unique destinations without logistical hurdles.
Simplifying event permits is another key measure to bolster the tourism sector. The government is currently revising the processes for organizing national and international events, making them more straightforward and transparent.
“These steps are expected to stimulate the tourism sector,” Airlangga stated.
The initiative is designed to encourage more events, which play a crucial role in drawing tourists and boosting local economies.
In a related effort, the government has introduced a 10% reduction in airfare prices ahead of the Christmas and New Year holiday season for 2024/2025. This discount, equivalent to Rp157,500 per ticket, applies across three main components.
Airlangga noted that this reduction could help increase domestic and international travel during the peak holiday season. “We hope that tourism can become one of the sectors that generates foreign exchange more quickly,” he concluded.
These measures reflect Indonesia’s determination to position itself as a leading global tourist destination. By addressing key issues like accessibility and event organization, the government is paving the way for sustainable growth in tourism. As the nation works towards revitalizing this sector, its efforts promise long-term benefits for the economy and cultural exchange.
