The Government of the Riau Islands Province (Kepri) is drafting a Master Plan for Regional Tourism Development (RIPDA), which is intended to be the cornerstone of tourism growth in the region.
On August 24, 2024, Guntur, the head of Kepri’s Tourism Department, detailed the ongoing efforts to align the RIPDA with existing regulations and strategies to drive tourism sector growth. This plan involves the collaboration of various districts within Kepri, including Batam, Bintan, Karimun, and Tanjungpinang, and integrates broad economic strategies such as the Blue, Green, & Circular Economy (BGCE).
The RIPDA’s development is closely tied to national and local regulations to ensure that tourism strategies effectively contribute to Kepri’s economic goals. “Our aim is to align our local tourism development with broader national economic policies,” explained Guntur.
Photo: Rumah Berita (2024)
The plan prioritizes the development of tourism clusters around the region’s free trade zones, with specific themes set out by Government Regulation No. 1 of 2024. This includes enhancing the competitiveness of the halal industry and the sustainable development of Penyengat Island.
Current revisions to the National Tourism Law (RIPARNAS) are being factored into the RIPDA to ensure it remains relevant and effective amid changing regulatory landscapes. “We must adapt to strategic environmental dynamics and new regulatory products,” Guntur added.
Governor Ansar Ahmad emphasized tourism as a critical sector for Kepri’s economic recovery, particularly after the pandemic’s impact reduced international visits from 2.8 million in 2019 to 1.6 million last year. “Significant steps are needed to revive our tourism sector,” Governor Ahmad remarked.
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The RIPDA represents a collaborative effort between the local government and the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), aiming to position Kepri alongside Bali and Jakarta as a major international tourism gateway.
The strategic renewal of Kepri’s tourism sector signifies potential new opportunities for travel and investment in the region. The RIPDA not only aims to enhance local economic conditions but also to strengthen Kepri’s position as a key player in the Southeast Asian tourism market.
The Riau Islands Province is actively developing a new master plan to revitalize its tourism sector. The plan aims to enhance connectivity and economic resilience post-pandemic. This initiative is part of a broader effort to transform Kepri into a leading destination for international visitors, leveraging its unique cultural and natural assets.
Sources: Go Kepri, Kepri Raya (2024)
