Tourism plays a pivotal role in bolstering a country's economy, generating foreign exchange earnings, employment opportunities, and stimulating various sectors within the economy. In Indonesia, a burgeoning trend in tourism is sports tourism, which combines sporting events with the promotion of tourist destinations. With its rich natural resources and stunning tourism icons, Indonesia is well-positioned to harness the potential of sports tourism as a significant driver of its national economy. The success of this sector relies on collaborative efforts among the government, private sector, and local communities, with each playing a crucial role. The government is responsible for policy development and infrastructure, the private sector includes tourism businesses, and local communities are the custodians of tourism resources, including cultural heritage.

Indonesia has seen success in both hard and soft sports tourism. Hard sports tourism encompasses international-scale sporting events like the Mandalika MotoGP, contributing significantly to the country's economy. On the other hand, soft sports tourism involves lifestyle-oriented activities that anyone can participate in, such as marathons, which not only attract participants but also promote local culture and boost various sectors, including small and medium-sized enterprises. Indonesia recognizes the enormous economic potential of sports tourism, and this sector is gaining formal recognition within the country's legal and policy frameworks. Addressing challenges such as air pollution is crucial to maintaining the sector's reputation and ensuring its continued growth. Involving local communities in the development of sports tourism is essential, as it empowers them to benefit from the economic opportunities it presents and enhances the overall visitor experience, fostering a positive cycle of tourism growth.

Source:
https://m.antaranews.com/amp/berita/3720348/memacu-sport-tourism-sebagai-penggerak-perekonomian