RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is aggressively positioning Indonesia as a premier global diving destination, leveraging the Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) 2026, at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre from April 10 to 12, 2026, to capture the high-spending quality tourist segment.

During the three-day event, Indonesia showcased its vast underwater biodiversity to an audience of approximately 15,000 international visitors.

The participation comes as the ministry shifts its focus toward high-value, sustainable tourism. By targeting the global diving community, a demographic recognized for longer stays and higher economic contributions, Indonesia aims to strengthen its competitive edge within the Asia-Pacific market.

“Indonesia's participation in this event is in line with the transformation of tourism toward quality tourism, namely tourism that emphasizes quality experiences, sustainability, and higher economic contributions,” said Deputy for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, in a statement released in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, as quote on the Ministry's official website.

The Wonderful Indonesia pavilion featured a collaborative delegation of eight industry leaders, including liveaboard operators and luxury dive resorts. These representatives showcased premier sites ranging from the iconic reefs of Raja Ampat and Labuan Bajo to the world-renowned biodiversity of Lembeh, Maratua, and Ambon.

To ensure seamless travel for prospective divers, national carrier Garuda Indonesia joined the pavilion to provide essential data on domestic connectivity and offer exclusive promotional fares. Indonesia's presence was further bolstered by its status as the Official ADEX Dive Destination Partner, a move that culminated in Wonderful Indonesia receiving the prestigious Island Tourism of the Year title at the Blue Legacy Awards 2026.

Ni Made Ayu Marthini highlighted Indonesia’s geographic advantage as a core part of the Coral Triangle, the global epicenter of marine biodiversity. This ecological wealth is a primary driver for the nation's tourism sector, with data from Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) revealing that 43.32 percent of foreign tourists engage in marine-based activities during their stay.

“Through participation in ADEX 2026, Indonesia continues to strengthen its image as a world-leading marine tourism destination while promoting quality and sustainable tourism. We are optimistic that this event can increase the interest and visits of foreign tourists, especially divers, to experience firsthand the beauty of Indonesia's underwater world,” she added.

The mission proved financially fruitful, recording potential transactions worth approximately IDR 7 billion and an estimated increase of 500 international visitors. Beyond immediate revenue, the ministry utilized the platform to distribute the Indonesia Diving Directory and engage with global media, ensuring that the nation's commitment to preserving its underwater heritage remains a central narrative in international tourism. ***