ICE and ASITA Forge Partnership to Boost Tourism Between Indonesia and Pakistan
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: In a significant step towards enhancing tourism cooperation, the International Creatives Exchange (ICE) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) at the Al Barkat Palace in South Jakarta on Saturday, 5 October 2024.
The MoU, which comprises 11 points, aims to strengthen tourism ties between Indonesia and Pakistan, fostering greater mutual benefits for both countries.
Atta Ul Karim, Chairman of ICE, expressed his deep appreciation for the collaboration, highlighting his personal connection to both nations. “I was born in Pakistan but grew up and found success in Indonesia. I owe a debt of gratitude to both countries,” Atta stated, adorned in a golden brown batik. He emphasized the importance of continuous efforts to boost tourism between the two brotherly nations.
Atta views ASITA as an ideal partner in this endeavor, given its reputation as the leading tourism association in Indonesia since its establishment in 1971.
Mrs. Rusmiati, President of ASITA, expressed pride and enthusiasm regarding the MoU, noting that Pakistan’s tourism potential remains largely untapped. “Pakistan is one of the countries that has not yet been explored in the tourism world, despite its extraordinary potential. Indonesia offers numerous halal tourism destinations, showcasing our similarities,” she remarked, dressed in a black Pashmina.
“While many countries have collaborated with ASITA, Pakistan has yet to do so. Its natural beauty rivals that of Switzerland and New Zealand,” Rusmiati added. She further emphasized the cultural and religious connections between Indonesia and Pakistan as the two largest Muslim-majority countries in the world, presenting a compelling tourism package.
ASITA boasts 89 branches and approximately 7,000 travel agencies across Indonesia, underscoring its significant presence in the tourism sector.
The signing ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Mrs. Siti Nur Azizah, daughter of the Indonesian Vice President, and Mr. Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma, Chargé d’Affaires of the Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad. Mrs. Siti expressed her hopes that the collaboration would lead to mutual benefits for the tourism industries of both nations, referring to the upcoming 75th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Indonesia and Pakistan.
Echoing her sentiments, Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma shared his experiences in Pakistan, highlighting the country’s breathtaking landscapes and welcoming culture. “As an Indonesian living in Pakistan, I’ve been captivated by the unique culture and the friendly nature of the people, particularly when they learn of our Indonesian identity. I hope this MoU opens doors for direct flights between our countries, leading to numerous positive impacts,” he stated.
Currently, there are no direct flights between Indonesia and Pakistan, presenting a challenge to tourism growth. Rahmat concluded, “With the MoU between ICE and ASITA, we aim to increase tourist numbers in both countries, paving the way for airlines to establish direct flights.”
This partnership marks a promising beginning for tourism cooperation between Indonesia and Pakistan, with potential benefits for travelers and the tourism industries of both nations.