The 10th World Water Forum 2024 has left a lasting impact on its participants, with more than 90 percent of attendees expressing a desire to return to Bali and recommending it as a premier destination for both tourism and business, according to a recent survey.
Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, shared insightful data on the economic and tourism benefits derived from the forum held in Bali from May 18-25, 2024. “Our survey results reveal that the average stay for the delegates was 8 days, with international delegates staying longer at 8.7 days, compared to 7.1 days for Indonesian delegates,” Sandiaga noted during The Weekly Brief With Sandi Uno.
The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, along with the Center for Economic, Industry, Service, and Trade Research (BRIN), conducted the survey which showed that the average expenditure per visit was Rp38.8 million, equivalent to 2,427 US dollars.
“The highest spending was on accommodation, participation fees, food and beverages, and domestic flights. This indicates that many delegates traveled to other destinations after their time in Bali,” Sandiaga explained.
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The survey, which involved 446 respondents, had a margin of error of 5 percent and a confidence level of 95 percent. It revealed that a significant majority, over 90 percent, planned to revisit Bali and would recommend it as a top destination for both tourism and business.
“Not only did the World Water Forum boost our economy, but it also showcased our local wisdom and water management culture on an international platform,” Sandiaga emphasized.
The forum’s success was further highlighted by its positive impact on national economic activities. Sandiaga reported, “The national economy grew by 0.374 percent during the 2024 World Water Forum, contributing a total of Rp1.38 trillion and creating approximately 10,479 jobs.”
Sandiaga underlined the strategic importance of such events, stating that they reaffirm Bali’s status as a world-class MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. “The World Water Forum has once again demonstrated Bali’s capacity to host international events that drive significant economic and cultural benefits,” he concluded.
The overwhelming positive feedback from the forum participants underscores Bali’s enduring appeal and its potential as a hub for international tourism and business, marking another milestone in its journey toward becoming a global destination.