TAMAN Wisata Candi Prambanan, Borobudur dan Ratu Boko’s (TWCPB&RB) plan to implement a single pricing policy at Borobudur and hike the summit access fee from US$15 to US$20 starting June 1 has resulted in a backlash from tourism stakeholders in Jogjakarta.
Tri Agung Pramono Adi, director, Panorama Tours Jogjakarta said: “On one hand, we understand that the management is bound to agreements with international partners to apply a single pricing policy. However, the decision is very difficult for the trade like us to implement.”
“For international tourists, a Jogjakarta package is already more expensive than one for Bali. International operators have even compared our package prices to Vietnam and Cambodia (for similar heritage products), saying ours are much more expensive.”
“As for domestic tourists, it is very difficult to justify such a huge increase,” he added.
Bagus Baliantoro, president, Dewata Sakti Tours Jogjakarta, said: “I am afraid we will see more agents putting Borobudur as an optional tour. Those who want to climb up the temple will have to pay extra, because the package will become too expensive if we put the cost in.”
Edwin Ismedi Himna, chairman, Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies Jogjakarta chapter said: “Jogjakarta is still dependent on Bali as a tourist gateway, especially for longhaul travellers. If the entry fee is increased, I am afraid our partners in Bali will take Jogjakarta out of their packages and make it an optional tour, as Borobudur is a major highlight for Jogjakarta tours.”
“I understand the value of a (UNESCO) World Heriage site, and I do not mind the price if Jogjakarta airport becomes an international gateway attracting direct flights from overseas,” he added.
Tazbir Abdullah, director, Jogjakarta Tourism Office said: “Jogjakarta is working very hard to grow the number of arrivals. I appeal to the (Borobudur) management to consider (the potential impact on both domestic and international traffic) before implementing a (new price structure).”
