Sandiaga Uno Lauds Domestic Tourist Mobility as Tourism's Savior

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno on Monday said the number of international tourist visitations this year slumped 75 percent due to Covid-19 restrictions but has seen domestic tourists keep the local tourism afloat. 

“There is good news. That tourism is now kept alive by domestic tourists and has become our savior,” said the Minister in a virtual press conference on December 6.

However, despite his enthusiasm in lauding local tourist mobility, he did not reveal the exact numbers. The Minister said he is eyeing on attracting up to 2 million international tourists in 2022 which is an official goal presented to House legislators.

“It is indeed a large gap to the 16 million in 2019, but we are confident tourism that puts forth quality and sustainability will be our focus in the future,” said Sandiaga Uno.

He again hopes the role of domestic tourists will help grow tourism next year, especially in tourism based on nature and cultural attractions. 

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) logged 151.03 thousand visitations from international tourists in October this year, which is a 0.83 percent drop compared to 2020. However, compared to September 2021, the visitation by international tourists grew 21 percent. 

Read: Sandiaga: Omicron Will Affect Tourism

MUHAMMAD HENDARTYO