RR.CO.ID, Jakarta - Involving local intellectual property (IP) in every event is beneficial for promoting a positive image of Indonesia through tourism.

Ni Luh Puspa, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, said that events that highlight local IP serve not only as entertainment or competitions, but also create real demand for tourism services in destination areas.

"When people come for an event, they don't just show up and leave. They stay, consume, and interact with the area. That's where the economic impact is felt," Ni Luh said at a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday, January 22, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

She added that, in the case of sports tourism events specifically, the location is chosen based on the region's ability to offer a distinctive experience. For example, cities like Bandung offer an urban character with a strong local culture, while Lombok relies on natural landscapes and world-class destinations.

This encourages participants to explore more destinations. They're encouraged to visit other Indonesian cities.

"The initial goal might have been to simply participate in an event and collect medals, but then the desire to return to other cities emerges. This is what drives the tourism movement," Ni Luh said.

She added that the multiplier effect of local IP-based events is significant. The transportation, hospitality, culinary, and MSME sectors all grow when thousands of people come to a single destination.

"If 15,000 people from outside the region stay for at least three days, eat out, spend the night, and use local transportation and services, the economic impact is enormous," she said.

Meanwhile, InJourney CEO Maya Watono emphasized that tourism success hinges on the presence of strong attractions. Events act as the main trigger that revitalizes the entire tourism chain.

"Attractions are catalysts. Without events or clear attractions, destination development will not generate demand," Maya said.

She cited Mandalika in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) as an example. It is now recognized internationally as a sports entertainment destination thanks to its hosting of MotoGP and the Fanatec GT World Challenge Asia 2025.

"These events encapsulate the complete tourism ecosystem, from airports and access to destination experiences. Ultimately, the quality of tourism and the region's global perception will improve," she concluded. ***