Jakarta, September 19, 2024 – The Europe Today: Malaysia has emerged as Indonesia’s leading source of international visitors, significantly contributing to the nation’s economy, according to Indonesia’s Tourism and Creative Economy Minister, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno. Speaking at a reception on Thursday night to celebrate Malaysia’s 67th National Day and 61st Malaysia Day, Sandiaga highlighted the increasing cooperation between the two nations in the tourism and creative economy sectors.
“Tourist destinations in both Jakarta and Bali have seen a notable rise in visitors, and we are also boosting exports of economic products such as batik,” Sandiaga said. He credited the strong partnership between Indonesia and Malaysia for enhancing tourism and creative industries, which he views as essential to maximizing the benefits of increased tourism for both countries.
Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that foreign tourist visits reached 1.31 million in July 2024, with Malaysia leading the influx at 13.56%, followed by Australia at 12.73%, and China at 9.62%. In 2023, 1.9 million Malaysians visited Indonesia, while 3.1 million Indonesians travelled to Malaysia.
Sandiaga also emphasized the ongoing collaboration with Malaysia’s Tourism Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, noting the importance of bilateral economic progress. “Indonesia and Malaysia aim to strengthen our longstanding cooperation and continue boosting trade in key goods such as palm oil, rubber, electronics, textiles, and coal,” he said.
The minister congratulated Malaysia on its national celebrations and reflected on the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, underscoring shared history, culture, and values. He stressed the importance of ASEAN cooperation and global unity, declaring, “We’re brothers – ‘Kita Negara Serumpun,’” and called for a unified vision for a brighter and more harmonious regional future.
