MALAYSIA BECOMES LARGEST SOURCE OF VISITORS TO INDONESIA, SAYS MINISTER SANDIAGA

By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar

JAKARTA, Sept 19 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has become Indonesia's top source of international visitors, delivering a substantial boost to the nation's economy, according to Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno.

He credited the collaboration between the two countries for enhancing cooperation in the tourism and creative economy sectors, stating that these efforts are essential for maximising the benefits of increased tourism for both nations.

“Tourist destinations in both Jakarta and Bali continue to see an increase in visitors, while we’re also increasing exports of economic products, such as batik,” he explained.

Speaking at a reception celebrating Malaysia’s 67th National Day and 61st Malaysia Day on Thursday night as the Guest of Honour, Sandiaga sincerely thanked the people of Malaysia for helping achieve tourism targets.

Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that foreign tourist visits reached 1.31 million in July 2024, with the majority of visitors coming from Malaysia (13.56 per cent), Australia (12.73 per cent), and China (9.62 per cent).

Last year, a total of 1.9 million Malaysians travelled to Indonesia, while 3.1 million Indonesians visited Malaysia.

Sandiaga emphasised the ongoing collaboration with Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, highlighting that economic progress is key to prosperity.

“Thus, Indonesia and Malaysia aim to enhance our longstanding economic cooperation and continue to boost bilateral trade in goods such as palm oil, rubber, electronics, textiles, and coal,” he said.

Sandiaga also extended heartfelt congratulations to Malaysia on both celebrations and reflected on the country’s journey of growth, unity, and progress, underscoring the strong ties between Indonesia and Malaysia, rooted in shared history, culture, and values.

He stressed the importance of cooperation within ASEAN and the global community, declaring, “We’re brothers - ‘Kita Negara Serumpun,’” and concluded by calling for unity and a shared vision for a brighter future, asserting that together, both nations can foster a more harmonious region.

-- BERNAMA