Yogyakartas Tourism Success Sets Example for Indonesia, Says Ministry

TheIndonesia.co - The Ministry of Tourism has highlighted Yogyakarta, particularly Bantul District, as a model for effective tourism management. Deputy for Destination and Infrastructure Development, Hariyanto, emphasized the importance of cleanliness in tourist destinations as key to developing tourism in Indonesia.

During his visit to Yogyakarta, Hariyanto pointed out that while Indonesia’s ranking in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index improved from 32nd to 22nd, health and hygiene factors still need improvement, ranking 89th out of 114.

"However, the indicators for health and tourism were still low, health and hygiene were still low, ranked 89 out of 114. Therefore, this clean tourism movement must be a concern for all," stated Hariyanto, according to Antara News Agency.

He also praised Wukirsari Village in Bantul, named the Best Tourism Village by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 2024, as a prime example of community-driven tourism development.

Hariyanto noted the village’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, particularly its batik tradition, which has gained international recognition as part of Indonesia’s rich cultural and natural tourism offerings.

"This is part of a long history where the local community is concerned with preserving, empowering all its potential, especially batik potential," he added.

According to Hariyanto, Indonesian batik has managed to showcase its advantages and make its presence felt at the international level. It has also been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

"There are many examples from Yogyakarta and uniqueness in cultural potential, tourism potential, especially culture and nature. In Indonesia's tourism portfolio, culture and nature are the main things," stated Hariyanto.