RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Vice Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, emphasized that the transformation towards sustainable tourism is no longer just a global trend, but a strategic necessity for Indonesia to remain competitive amidst global destination competition.

"In line with this, the Ministry of Tourism views sustainable tourism as the main foundation for Indonesia's future tourism development. This approach aligns with the direction of national development policies and the dynamics of global tourism," Vice Minister Ni Luh, when opening the online STDev Circle Forum themed "Sustainable Tourism Movements and Actions" in Jakarta on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

Based on data from the Ministry of Tourism, the tourism sector's achievements throughout 2025 also demonstrate that policy direction is on the right track. Foreign tourist visits reached 15.39 million, representing a growth of 10.80 percent.

Meanwhile, domestic tourist trips reached 1.20 billion, an increase of 17.55 percent. This growth reflects optimism and market confidence in Indonesia's tourism, which continues to transform.

International recognition also strengthens Indonesia's position as a highly regarded destination. Tourism Village and Osing Kemiren Tourism Village screenings received awards from UN Tourism.

Moreover, 33 hotels and resorts in Indonesia received MICHELIN Keys recognition, signifying improved service quality and a global standard of accommodation. "By 2026, we are targeting strengthened performance focused on quality and competitiveness. The target for foreign tourist visits is projected to be in the range of 16.0 to 17.6 million," the Deputy Minister of Tourism stated.

She also underscored that this achievement can only be achieved through strong collaboration between stakeholders. The STDev Circle Forum is considered strategic because it brings together various supporting elements from the five flagship programs, from policy makers, business actors, academics, communities, and the younger generation.