Indonesia’s Tourism Must Rise as a Beacon of Sustainable Prosperity

Tourism has always been more than a leisure industry for Indonesia. It is a national identity, a cultural expression, and when governed with vision a catalyst for inclusive economic growth. Today, as Indonesia steps into a new chapter of competitiveness, sustainability, and global relevance, we must recognize the profound transformation taking place in our tourism sector.

The government’s 2025–2029 roadmap makes one thing clear: the old model of mass tourism is no longer enough. Volume alone cannot guarantee prosperity. What Indonesia needs is Quality Tourism tourism that enriches the visitor, empowers the community, and protects the environment.

This shift is not optional; it is existential.

A New Era of Competitive and Sustainable Tourism

Indonesia’s climb to rank 22 in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index is not a mere statistic it is proof that our nation is being recognized for doing things differently. Achievements such as UN Tourism’s Best Tourism Village awards and our leadership in ASEAN sustainable hospitality show that global acknowledgment follows where genuine sustainability is practiced.

Quality Tourism is grounded in three pillars:

1. Cultural authenticity travel that creates real connection between visitor and community.

2. Environmental responsibility tourism that regenerates rather than depletes.

3. High-value experiences products that elevate Indonesia’s global brand.

This is how tourism becomes a driver of dignity, not just revenue.

Tourism for All: Empowering Local Communities

Our villages Bilebante, Pela, Taro, Jatiluwih, Wukisari, and many more demonstrate that tourism excellence need not be born in major cities. When communities lead, tourism becomes a bridge to new livelihoods, strengthened cultural pride, and regional growth.

This is the pathway to a tourism model where prosperity is felt not only in Bali, but in Bima, Biak, Bone, and beyond.

Green, Blue, and Circular: The Future of Tourism Industries

Indonesia is also starting to redefine sustainability in practical terms. Programs to reduce food waste, pilot Blue-Green-Circular Economy (BGCE) models, decarbonize tourism operations, and establish Sustainable Hotel Awards signal an industry no longer content with cosmetic green branding.

This aligns perfectly with the global climate agenda and gives Indonesia a unique advantage.

Financing the Future: IQTF

A breakthrough worth celebrating is the Indonesia Quality Tourism Fund (IQTF) a mechanism that opens doors for green financing, event development, and tourism innovation.

This is the kind of creative institutional thinking that turns policy into progress.

Baca Juga: Pariwisata Indonesia Menuju Arah Berkualitas dan Berkelanjutan

Collaboration is Our Strongest Asset

Fourteen ministries, multiple local governments, and key international partners are now aligned behind a shared mission of sustainable tourism. This level of cross-sector collaboration is unprecedented—and essential. Tourism does not stand alone; it stands on the foundations of culture, infrastructure, environment, security, and community empowerment.

Indonesia’s strength lies in its unity of purpose.

The Path Forward: Tourism as a National Movement

To truly lead, Indonesia must embed sustainability into every layer of tourism:

– from hospitality standards to transportation,

– from waste management to digital promotion,

– from vocational education to international marketing.

But sustainability must also become a social movement something embraced not just by institutions but by citizens, entrepreneurs, and local leaders.

Tourism is not just the Ministry’s program; it is a national project.

Conclusion: A Legacy for the Next Generation

Indonesia stands at the doorstep of a golden opportunity. If we embrace quality, sustainability, and innovation, tourism can become a cornerstone of national resilience—one that brings dignity to communities, elevates Indonesia’s global stature, and secures prosperity for generations to come.

What we build today must endure longer than the political cycle. It must honor our heritage and safeguard our future.

Sustainable tourism is not merely a policy.

It is a legacy.