Indonesia's Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno,
celebrated the successful accomplishment of all 2023 tourism goals and
outlined the nation's vision for 2024, emphasising the development of
green tourism initiatives.
Speaking at the conclusion of 2023, Sandiaga expressed gratitude for
meeting set targets, highlighting a remarkable surge in domestic tourist
visits surpassing pre-Covid levels. He noted that foreign tourist
arrivals also exceeded expectations, surpassing 35% of the 8.5 million
target.
Particularly noteworthy was the influx of 1.5 million international
tourists entering Indonesia through the Riau Islands, notably Batam
City. Sandiaga emphasised this as a significant milestone, solidifying
the Riau Islands' position as the third-largest gateway for foreign
tourists entering Indonesia.
Looking ahead to 2024, Sandiaga Uno remains optimistic. The
forthcoming year aims for further advancements, particularly focusing on
green tourism. This approach prioritises sustainability, ensuring
environmental resource conservation within tourism initiatives.
Highlighting specific destinations, Sandiaga identified Nirup Island
Batam, Boyotomo Bintan, and Lagoi Resort Bintan among the key green
tourism sites in the Riau Islands. The minister expressed a commitment
to making green tourism a pivotal component of Indonesia's tourism
landscape in the upcoming year.