Indonesia Advocates Sustainable Tourism at United Nations General Assembly

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno underscored Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to fostering quality and sustainable tourism during his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Minister Uno emphasized Indonesia’s endeavors to enhance the well-being of its populace through active participation in the tourism sector, citing initiatives such as tourism villages and eco-tourism as pivotal avenues for socio-economic development. His remarks, delivered during the UNGA Sustainability Week’s high-level thematic event on tourism, underscored Indonesia’s role as a conscientious tourism destination attuned to climate change and broader sustainable development goals.

“Our presence in the forum is expected to bolster Indonesia’s position as a tourism destination conscience to climate change issues and other issues related to welfare and sustainable development goals,” Uno stated, reflecting Indonesia’s proactive engagement on the global stage.

Highlighting Indonesia’s emergence as a beacon of post-pandemic tourism transformation, Minister Uno underscored the nation’s alignment with regenerative tourism principles and its concerted efforts to mitigate carbon emissions within the tourism sector.

Concrete policy measures aimed at achieving sustainability were outlined, including initiatives such as carbon emission offset programs, mangrove tree planting at tourist destinations, reef restoration projects, and concerted actions to address waste management, food loss, and food waste issues.

Minister Uno also underscored the transformative impact of Indonesia’s tourism village program, which has not only enhanced the well-being of local communities but also fostered a deep sense of cultural preservation and respect for indigenous wisdom and customs.

Indonesia’s proactive stance on sustainable tourism resonates with global efforts to prioritize environmental conservation and community empowerment within the tourism sector. Minister Uno’s address at the UNGA serves as a testament to Indonesia’s leadership in advocating for a more sustainable and inclusive approach to tourism, paving the way for greater collaboration and collective action toward a more resilient and equitable tourism industry globally.