Indonesia is actively promoting sustainable tourism on the global stage.Deputy Minister of Tourism ni Luh Puspa recently visited Madrid, Spain, to advocate for sustainable tourism practices and strengthen international tourism diplomacy during the 123rd Session of the UN Tourism Executive Council.

“Indonesia, as a country committed to sustainable tourism development, must take part in this meeting to promote sustainable tourism through tourism villages and green investment,” Puspa stated. She emphasized Indonesia’s dedication to fostering environmentally conscious and community-based tourism initiatives.

During the session, Puspa represented Indonesia as a member of the Executive Council for the East Asia and Pacific Commission, a role the country will hold from 2023 to 2027.A key highlight of the session was the appointment of Shaikha Al Nowais from the United Arab Emirates as the Secretary-General of UNWTO for the 2026-2029 term.

The appointment of Al nowais is anticipated to promote a more inclusive and sustainable global tourism sector, creating more opportunities for women’s involvement in the industry. Puspa also engaged in several bilateral meetings with tourism officials from Spain, India, Mexico, and Tunisia to explore potential collaborations.

“I hope Indonesia can renew tourism partnerships and further strengthen longstanding bilateral ties with India, Mexico, Tunisia, and spain,” Puspa said, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in advancing tourism goals.

Puspa presented the Ministry’s five flagship programs: the Clean tourism Movement; Tourism 5.0 through AI and digitalization; Enhanced Tourism focusing on gastronomy, marine, and wellness experiences; Cultural Events based on original Indonesian Intellectual Property (IP); and the development of Tourism Villages. She also highlighted Indonesia’s 10 Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for tourism, designed as catalysts for high-quality and sustainable tourism-driven economic growth.

She promoted the five priority tourism destinations (DPP), Namely Lake Toba (North Sumatra), Borobudur (Central Java), Mandalika (West Nusa Tenggara), Labuan Bajo (East Nusa Tenggara), and Likupang (North sulawesi).

“Indonesia, as a country committed to sustainable tourism development, must take part in this meeting…”

These initiatives reflect Indonesia’s commitment to leveraging tourism for economic growth while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.