The Association of Indonesian Travel Agents (ASTINDO) celebrated its 25th anniversary on 10 November 2024, reaffirming its commitment to advancing sustainable tourism in Indonesia.
ASTINDO supports Indonesia’s alignment with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement’s Net Zero Emissions target for 2060.
Reflecting on ASTINDO’s journey, president Pauline Suharno shared on social media: “Fifteen years ago, I was asked by the late Pak Rudiana to join this association. I never thought I’d one day be entrusted as its president. Through all the ups and downs, I can proudly say ASTINDO is now 25 years old and ready to fly higher!”
ASTINDO’s anniversary aligns with Indonesia’s commitment to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement’s Net Zero Emissions target for 2060. "Sustainable tourism is the present and future for Indonesia," said Suharno, highlighting the potential of the country’s natural and cultural heritage and ASTINDO’s efforts to promote sustainable travel experiences.
ASTINDO members visited Pulau Bidadari by ferry, enjoying its exotic beaches, lush mangrove forests, and spotting rare plants and monitor lizards. Photo Credit: ASTINDO/Pauline Suharno
As part of its anniversary celebrations, ASTINDO’s 26 regional boards (DPDs) held a week of activities beginning 3 November. These included walking tours to showcase local tourist destinations, waste clean-ups, and tree-planting initiatives. For example:
Sulawesi Utara: A visit to Tinoor Satu Village in Tomohon, featuring the Tekaan Telu Waterfall.
Kalimantan Utara: A tour of Peningki Lama, a historic site from the Second World War.
Jambi: A religious walking tour crossing the pedestrian-only Gentala Arasy Bridge.
NTB (Lombok): Development of ASTINDO Park, led by DPD NTB Chair Sahlan.
The week culminated on 15 November with a "Day to Sunset Cruise" aboard Quick Silver in Jakarta Bay, where participants sailed to Pulau Bidadari in the Thousand Islands to plant mangroves, promoting environmental preservation.
Founded in 1999, ASTINDO comprises travel agents from across Indonesia. The association has been instrumental in protecting travel agents' business interests and supporting government policy-making. Over the years, ASTINDO has consistently provided training and certifications to enhance the skills of tourism professionals nationwide.