The Riau Islands are set to be the epicenter of Indonesian tourism in 2024, as they prepare to host not one, but two pivotal national tourism events. These include the National Meeting of the Indonesian Travel Company Association (ASITA) and the IV National Work Meeting of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI).
The announcement comes as the Riau Islands strive to rebound from the tourism slump due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hosting the national events positions them to showcase their rejuvenated tourism offerings and infrastructure upgrades.
Governor of the Riau Islands, Ansar Ahmad, expresses his elation and optimism for the forthcoming events, underscoring their potential in boosting the region’s tourism, especially amidst post-pandemic recovery.
The decision to nominate the Riau Islands as host for the National Meeting of ASITA 2024 was revealed during the IV National Work Meeting of ASITA 2023, held in Yogyakarta on August 29, officiated by Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno.
The IV National Work Meeting of PHRI, scheduled for February 21 and 22, 2024, will be hosted at Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay Batam. This assembly is anticipated to craft influential national programs, driving positive economic outcomes for the region.
Eva Betty, Chairwoman of ASITA Riau Islands, announced the National Meeting of ASITA 2024 is slated for late May 2024 in Batam City. This national event presents a unique platform to promote Riau Islands tourism, including local SMEs, culinary delights, tourist spots, and hotels.
Governor Ansar emphasizes the region’s commitment to ensure these events are executed seamlessly and hopes for comprehensive support from all stakeholders, including the local community.
With the Riau Islands located close to Singapore, the bolstered attention on the islands’ tourism is likely to spill over, attracting Singaporeans and international tourists alike. The successful execution of these events could set a benchmark for regional tourism, possibly fostering greater collaborations between Singapore and the Riau Islands.
The Riau Islands, Indonesia, will be the spotlight in 2024, hosting the national events of ASITA and PHRI. These assemblies are seen as crucial steps in revitalizing the region’s tourism post-pandemic and enhancing collaborations within the archipelago, potentially benefiting neighboring countries like Singapore.
Source : Batam News (2023)
