Indonesian President confident about tourism

JAKARTA - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono remains convinced that Indonesian tourism is facing a bright future especially as emphasis should be given to more partnerships between local administration and private sector. “Economic potential from our tourism sector is high and we can continue to expand. In this regard, I’m calling upon regional administrations and business sectors to cooperate,” said Yudhoyono in his account Twitter account, @SBYudhoyono, on Sunday as quoted by Antara news agency.

According to the Jakarta Post, the Indonesian President, who could be seen at the 2013 Sail Komodo in East Nusa Tenggara last Saturday, declared that one of the tourism development tools fostered by the government is the creation of more special events to attract domestic travellers but also generate “buzz” among the international community. 

For the president, Sail Komodo is one of the best way to promote Indonesian water tourism. “The tourism and sailing events have been conducted five times. Their social and economic benefits are evident. I declare the activities as annual events,” said Yudhoyono.

Giving an example, the President highlighted the good coordination between government officials but also the Indonesian Military and National Police, as well as business sectors, to deliver social assistance to help local people. He said the attendance of foreign participants in the event could help promote Indonesia’s natural beauty.

The government targets to attract 8.6 million foreign tourists this year compared to last year’s 8.04 million. In the longer term, the number of overseas tourist arrivals to is expected to reach 20 million, which could generate up to US$17 billion in tourism revenues by 2025.

Sourced: TravelDailyNews