The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism (MoT) is working to reform the local travel and tourism industry to enable a five per cent contribution to the national GDP by 2029. Key strategies will focus on attracting high-spending travellers and developing high-value tourism products.
Speaking at the Indonesia Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA) national conference, Rizki Handayani, MoT’s deputy for industry and investment, highlighted the government’s efforts to make tourism a priority sector.
“The national government is restructuring all sectors, including tourism, to drive economic growth. Our goal is to position tourism as a leading contributor to the national economy,” she said.
To boost visitor spending and revenue, MoT is focusing on travellers that seek premium experiences.
“We must provide products that resonate with high-value travellers,” she said, adding that the ministry is prioritising wellness, gastronomy, and marine tourism to cater to current travel trends.
She said Indonesia has potential and resources, such as spas and hotsprings, to elevate its wellness offerings and compete with destinations like Thailand.
She also encouraged local restaurants to sharpen their gastronomic offerings to help position Indonesia as a recreational destination.
As for marine tourism, MoT is driving the development of marinas and boating infrastructure to capitalise on the growing yachting industry across South-east Asia and Australia.
“Indonesia is a prime destination for yachts, and improved facilities will stimulate related industries and attract more visitors,” she opined.
There are also plans for MoT to create and promote unique events, both business and sports-related, to attract international attention.
“We can leverage existing events like the Jakarta Marathon and Tour de Singkarak, as well as develop new ones,” Rizki suggested.
Meanwhile, in collaboration with the Indonesia Inbound Tour Operators Association (IINTOA) and the Indonesian Travel Agents Association (ASTINDO), MoT plans to introduce specialised travel segments, such as architectural tours, to attract deep-pocketed and educational tour groups.
Haryadi Sukamdani, chairman of IHRA and the Association of the Indonesian Tourism Businesses (GIPI), affirmed the industry’s readiness to support MoT’s initiatives.
He said:”Our members are prepared to enhance facilities and adapt to evolving trends.”
He adding that both associations would increase participation in international travel marts, organise the Wonderful Indonesia Tourism Fair, conduct roadshows across eight Indonesian cities, and enhance digital marketing efforts.
Rizki also highlighted the need to update the Standard Classifications of Indonesian Business Fields to accurately reflect the tourism sector’s contribution to national GDP.
“Currently, only traditional hotels and restaurants are fully accounted for. We need to include villas, homestays, glamping, and other emerging accommodation types,” she explained.
MoT will collaborate with IHRA and GIPI to propose these changes to Statistics Indonesia.
