RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia is counting on investment and tourism sector to drive the national economy in the third quarter of 2026 (Q3 2026), expecting the two sectors to sustain growth momentum through the end of the year.

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said in Jakarta on Thursday, August 6, 2026, that boosting investment and tourism industries remains central to sustaining growth.

“In the next quarter, investment will continue to be encouraged, and tourism‑related industries will also be strengthened,” he noted, as quoted by Antara.

Airlangga pointed to Bali, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) as increasingly popular destinations for both domestic and international travelers.

The Indonesian Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) reported 630.41 million domestic trips between January and June 2026, the highest second‑quarter figure since 2019.

Foreign arrivals also rose: Bali welcomed 605,013 visitors in June, up 4.63 percent from May; NTB recorded 1.37 million trips, up 2.73 percent; while NTT saw 29,152 visits, a sharp 40.73 percent year‑on‑year increase.

“These regions are growing above the national average, proving tourism can be a low‑hanging fruit for economic expansion,” Airlangga said.

He also highlighted stronger regional connectivity, including new direct flights linking Bali and Phuket, Thailand, operated by TransNusa. The route is expected to attract families, digital nomads, and adventure seekers eager to explore the cultural and culinary richness of both destinations.

“With direct flights from Phuket and Bangkok to Bali, tourism ties between the two countries can grow further,” Airlangga added. ***