JAKARTA: Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mahendra Siregar closed the grand event of the Global Tourism Forum (GTF) Leaders Summit Asia which became a strong signal for the revival of tourism not only for Indonesia but also for the world.
“This hybrid event is so important and strategic and becomes an innovation to organize MICE in the new normal era and is a strong signal for Indonesia to reopen the tourism business,” said Mahendra Siregar.
This is the momentum to revisit so that we can rebuild, grow and prosper in the new normal era, he added. According to him, the World Tourism Forum Institute (WTFI) plan to hold its annual event in Indonesia again in 2022 to welcome RI leadership at the G-20 event also needs to be welcomed positively as a big effort and commitment from this organization.
“We are waiting for further details on how it will be implemented and for the reopening we are following the latest developments. We are learning to get better and always prepare ourselves,” said Mahendra Siregar.
The Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs did not state explicitly when to open the border for Bali, as many tourists from various parts of the world expect, but so far his party has not remained silent in carrying out strong cooperation and opening the travel corridor and travel bubble.
“In Asean and the region, we actively encourage the implementation of the travel corridor and travel bubble, so we are preparing ourselves for the latest developments on the reopening of international tourism,” he said.
Bulut Bagci, President of WTFI on this closing occasion also expressed his gratitude for the successful implementation of the GTF and exceeded expectations with the high commitment of the Indonesian government. In a special session of Asean Ministers led by Menparekraf Sandiaga Salahudin Uno, they shared experiences in reopening and agreed to immediately open borders.
“I am happy because it is important for every government to support its tourism. Indonesia is serious about supporting its tourism industry and when I arrived in Indonesia I felt at home,” said Bulut, who was wearing traditional Gorontalo clothing, from the area of Menparekraf Sandiaga Uno.
Bulut was also impressed that Indonesia has many tourism and aviation schools for the younger generation, they need support and assistance, especially in digital transformation in the future. “In closing, I want to remind us to always respect local culture and dynamics, which is inspired by our motto: feel global, be local!,”
Anang Fadhilah
