Ministry of Tourism Promotes Quality Tourism for Sustainable Growth, Focusing on Personalized Travel, Economic Benefits and Environmental Sustainability in Indonesia

Published on December 24, 2025

Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia has urged stakeholders in the tourism industry to redouble efforts towards quality tourism development, implementation, and practical central approach for sustainable national tourism development. This activity, according to the Assistant Deputy for Strategic Management of the Ministry, Gusti Ayu Dewi Hendriyani, is intended to provide superior tourist experiences and ensure positive economic, social, and environmental impacts.

The Ministry brought into light the need to shift from sheer growth to sustainable and more inclusive tourism models, hence addressing the long-term challenges of the tourism sector. It is also part of Indonesia’s broader vision: to create a future-proof tourism industry that will balance economic development with the preservation of the environment and cultural integrity.

Tourism Recovery: Quality Over Quantity

In a virtual discussion titled “The 12th Strategic Discussion Space: Implementing Quality Tourism in Indonesia,” Hendriyani pointed out that Indonesia’s tourism industry has shown positive recovery and growth in recent years. However, she noted that growth alone would not be sufficient to tackle the long-term challenges facing the industry. Instead, the focus should be on enhancing tourism quality, ensuring that the sector is sustainable, inclusive, and benefits local communities while safeguarding natural resources.

This transition to quality tourism will focus on personalized, meaningful travel experiences, attracting visitors who are seeking authentic cultural encounters, eco-tourism, and socially responsible tourism options. By catering to these new trends, Indonesia aims to strengthen its competitive edge in the global tourism market.

Tourism and Economic Sustainability: Impact on Local Communities

The government’s focus on quality tourism is expected to have a lasting impact on local economies. By promoting regional tourism, the Ministry is working to ensure that tourism revenues are distributed more equitably across Indonesia, benefiting not just the major tourist hubs but also smaller, underexplored destinations.

The promotion of sustainable tourism practices is crucial for supporting local businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector. The government’s collaboration with organizations like Bank Indonesia and local businesses will help drive economic diversification and reduce the overreliance on mass tourism. This approach will ensure long-term economic stability for communities, where tourism supports job creation, local businesses, and cultural preservation.

Personalized Travel and Technology: The Future of Tourism in Indonesia

As tourist preferences shift toward more personalized and experiential travel, the future of tourism growth in Indonesia will be heavily influenced by technology and innovation. The rise of smart tourism—driven by digital solutions, real-time data, and AI-powered recommendations—will enhance how tourists interact with the destination, offering them tailored travel experiences that match their specific interests and needs.

In addition, the growing demand for short-haul, sustainable travel within Asia positions Indonesia as a key player in the regional tourism market. The Ministry of Tourism’s efforts to foster eco-friendly travel and cultural experiences will align the country with global tourism trends, ensuring that Indonesia remains an attractive destination for quality-conscious travelers.

Future Impact: Sustainable Tourism as a Growth Driver

Looking ahead, quality tourism will likely become a major driver of future growth in Indonesia’s tourism industry. As the country continues to emphasize sustainability and responsible travel, the focus will be on creating a tourism sector that meets the needs of both tourists and local communities while preserving natural ecosystems and cultural heritage.

The growing interest in sustainable travel will lead to the development of new tourism models that prioritize eco-tourism, cultural preservation, and local engagement. As global tourism increasingly leans toward authentic, eco-conscious experiences, Indonesia’s commitment to quality tourism will allow the country to capture a larger share of the market by offering destinations that align with travelers’ expectations for sustainable tourism.

Building a Resilient Tourism Future

As Indonesia works to build a more resilient tourism sector, quality tourism will play a critical role in shaping the country’s future as a global destination. By focusing on creating unique, authentic travel experiences and fostering responsible tourism, Indonesia can ensure long-term growth that benefits tourism operators, local communities, and the environment.

The move towards sustainable tourism will not only improve tourism competitiveness but will also ensure that the country’s tourism sector contributes positively to the global tourism market in a way that balances economic growth with environmental responsibility. As more tourists seek to explore destinations that offer meaningful and eco-conscious experiences, Indonesia’s focus on quality tourism will position it as a leading sustainable travel destination in Southeast Asia.

Quality Tourism as a Catalyst for Future Growth

The call for quality tourism by the Ministry of Tourism marks a significant shift in Indonesia’s tourism industry towards achieving the goal of sustainable development. Personal travel experiences, responsible tourism practices that don’t harm the environment, and inclusivity in growth-all will get special attention now on, as the country is geared up for a future when responsible tourism will ensure community benefits, attract international travelers, and preserve Indonesia’s cultural and natural resources in the long run. With technology and sustainability at the front, Indonesia is poised to take the lead in carving a sustainable tourism model for the future.