RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The 35th Cohort of the Doctoral Program in Communication Science (DIK-35) at the Sahid University Graduate School hosted an international seminar titled "Prospects of the Tourism Industry Amid Economic Challenges" on Friday, 24 July, at the Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jakarta.

The seminar brought together policymakers, academics, and industry stakeholders to devise strategies that strengthen Indonesia's competitiveness in tourism amidst the global economic headwinds affecting the sector.

The tourism industry is a strategic sector that contributes significantly to national economic growth by generating foreign exchange, creating jobs, and bolstering MSMEs.

However, the sector is currently facing increasingly complex challenges—ranging from the weakening rupiah and rising global energy and aviation fuel prices to higher travel expenses—that impact both tourists and tourism businesses.

Amidst these conditions, cross-sector collaboration is essential to ensure the tourism industry continues to grow sustainably while maintaining Indonesia's competitiveness as a global tourist destination.

"Tourism is not merely about destinations or economic activities; it is also about building public trust, foster collaboration, and generate shared value for the community. Effective communication is essential to aligning the interests of the government, the business sector, academia, and international partners, ensuring that every policy and collaborative effort yields tangible benefits for the development of Indonesia's tourism sector," said Dr. Prasetya Yoga Santoso,

Head of the Doctoral Program in Communication Science at the Sahid University Graduate School.

"This seminar provides as a forum for dialogue that brings together diverse perspectives—ranging from government officials, industry players, and associations to academics and international partners. We hope this forum moves beyond discussion to produce actionable recommendations and foster new collaborations that strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of Indonesia's tourism industry," stated Dyah Hestu Lestari, Chairperson of the Sahid University DIK-35 International Seminar Committee.

The seminar featured Dr. Hj. Kurniasih Mufidayati, M.Si., Deputy Chairperson of Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), as the keynote speaker.

The panel discussion also included Prof. Dr. Zainuddin Maliki, M.Si., Advisor to the Minister of Villages and Disadvantaged Regions; Ahmad Fajar, President Director of the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC); Pauline Suharno, Chairperson of ASTINDO; and Herman Courbois, General Manager of Hotel Grand Sahid Jaya.

The speakers addressed various strategic issues, ranging from the development of tourism villages, market diversification, investment, and consumer protection to the strengthening of Indonesia's tourism sector.

Through this seminar, the Graduate School of Sahid University reaffirmed its commitment to providing a consistent academic forum that facilitates dialogue among the government, the business sector, academia, and international partners in formulating solutions to various strategic national issues.

The recommendations resulting from this seminar will serve as input for the government and stakeholders in strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of Indonesia's tourism industry.