The city of Jakarta is looking to build strong mutual tourism links with the Middle East as it places increased emphasis on the travel industry.
A high profile delegation from Jakarta, led by Aurora Tambunan, executive director, Jakarta City Government Tourism Office, visited the ATM and met with key regional tourism players, including the DTCM. "We also met a number of tourism boards and private industry players from within the region," said Tambunan. "Our aim is to create awareness of Jakarta as a mainline destination from the Middle East and to initiate mutual co-operation in building the tourism sector which is now a strategic economic segment." Jakarta's mission to the ATM was supported by the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Abu Dhabi, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Indonesia Culture and Tourism Board, tourism industry players and the provincial government. "In line with the theme a number of high quality marine tourism products have been created," said Tambunan. "Jakarta, for instance, as the capital and main gate to Indonesia, is highlighting tourism to the Seribu Islands, which is famed for its diving, snorkelling, fishing and yachting." Jakarta believes that international tourism players now need to step up their creativity to combat the challenges the global industry has faced from terrorism, war and disease. "Actively participating in international tourism events, such as ATM and improving international business co-operation and alliances are ways in which we can assist the industry in recovering," said Tambunan.