Marriott International Inc. in Indonesia has signed an MoU with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia to develop the country’s tourism sector and the creative economy.
The MoU covers collaboration on destination and tourism marketing; the institutional field including the development of talent and human resource competencies in the tourism sector; the field of creative economic development; as well as other forms of collaborations beneficial for the tourism and hospitality industry within a period of three years from the signing.
Ramesh Jackson, Indonesia’s area vice president for Marriott International, said the company is committed to supporting Indonesian tourism.
“Collectively we aim to improve the experience for travellers to get closer to the beauty of Indonesia, its natural wonders, its rich history, and its people,” he said.
In a statement, minister of tourism and creative economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, conveyed that this MoU is a concrete step towards a commitment between the public and private sector, in line with president Joko Widodo’s instructions to develop a more inclusive tourism.
“Marriott International, as one of the largest hospitality companies in the world and a major player as one of the top accommodation providers in Indonesia and across the archipelago, is the right partner for this strategic collaboration. I look forward to this fruitful cooperation and see the positive results in the near future,” said Sandiaga.
The collaboration supports Marriott International’s efforts to empower local talents and provide opportunities for students or graduates of six Tourism Polytechnics with practical experiences and training within the company’s hotels and resorts.
Tanah Gajah Ubud, an art-steeped resort in Bali, is looking to spark creativity among its guests with new hands-on art classes led by the very Indonesian artists whose work adorns the property.
The bespoke three-hour private painting sessions are held at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, with an award-winning local artist. Several painters, whose collections have been featured at the Hadiprana Gallery and are on display throughout the property, are available for the lessons. Guests have the option to choose an artist whose painting-style resonates with them.
Tanah Gajah and the Hadiprana family have long held a deep connection to Indonesia’s art scene. The property was once the former private estate of noted Indonesian designer and art collector, Hendra Hadiprana. A pioneer in Indonesia’s art scene, the family’s late patriarch opened Indonesia’s first art gallery in Jakarta sixty years ago.
When Tanah Gajah became a resort, much of the collection Hadiprana assembled over three decades remained. His array of stone-carved sculptures, paintings from local artists, and ancient vases has long drawn art lovers to the secluded Ubud property.
Classes are available upon request, and are priced at 1,500,000 rupiah (US$104) excluding service charge and taxes, with additional sessions offered at half the initial price.
The hotel also works with a local egg painting artist for guests interested in this Balinese craft.
For little ones, the resort has carved out a new art room, offered as part of club benefits. Families can book the space and make use of art supplies for children to paint freely or on colouring books that introduce Balinese cultural elements, from costumes to villages. Guest’s personal butler will be on hand to explain the significance of each image.
For more information visit www.tanahgajahubud.com