Indonesia approaches 2026 with strong confidence as stable economic fundamentals, controlled inflation, and expanding investment place the country among the world’s fastest-growing major economies. To sustain this momentum, Indonesia needs sectors that generate broad employment and promote regional equality—making tourism a vital engine of inclusive growth. More than a leisure industry, tourism supports hospitality, transport, creative sectors, MSMEs, and community livelihoods, bringing income to regions far from industrial hubs. With 5.63 million foreign arrivals recorded in the first five months of 2025 and resilient domestic travel, the sector shows high potential. Its advantages are clear: direct benefits to MSMEs, community-driven initiatives, strengthened cultural value, environmental alignment, and abundant opportunities for youth. Indonesia now has a chance to lead in sustainable high-value tourism, expand digital integration across the tourism ecosystem, and scale community-based tourism models already emerging in villages, homestays, and cultural corridors across the archipelago.
Unlocking this potential requires coordinated national strategy. Streamlined investor services through a Tourism Investment One-Stop Center would attract higher-quality capital, while incentives for green and sustainable projects would encourage responsible development. Improved domestic and international connectivity—reliable flights, ports, and multimodal transport—is essential for strengthening access to priority destinations. A National Tourism Data Center would help manage visitor flows and guide evidence-based policy. With these reforms, tourism can evolve into a pillar of long-term economic strength, elevating communities, supporting conservation efforts, and showcasing Indonesia’s cultural richness. As the country enters a new chapter, the goal is not to attract the most visitors, but the right visitors—those who value culture, respect nature, and contribute meaningfully to local prosperity. Indonesia is prepared, global interest is rising, and the opportunity is within reach.
