Minister Uno Launches 2024 Indonesian Tourism Village Award Program
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: In a bid to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of tourism actors in enhancing the economic and socio-cultural aspects of villages, Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno inaugurated the 2024 Indonesian Tourism Village Award (ADWI). The initiative, outlined in a statement from the ministry on Sunday, aims to extend beyond mere awards by integrating guidance and assistance for selected tourism villages, emphasizing both potential optimization and environmental preservation.
Minister Uno highlighted the evolving nature of this year’s ADWI during a launch event held in Bugisan Tourism Village, Klaten, Central Java, on Saturday, March 9. He emphasized the program’s commitment to providing tangible assistance and fostering collaborations with strategic partners to ensure sustained developments in village capacities.
The ADWI has evolved significantly since its inception in 2021 when it attracted participation from 1,831 tourism villages. The subsequent editions saw a surge in interest, with 3,419 and 4,573 villages registering in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Presently, a total of 4,812 tourism villages are registered in the Network of Tourism Villages (Jadesta).
Under the theme “Tourism Villages Towards World-Class Green Tourism,” the 2024 ADWI aligns with Indonesia’s dedication to promoting eco-friendly tourism destinations and activities. This vision for green tourism underscores the importance of sustainability, ensuring that the benefits of the tourism sector extend beyond economic gains to include the preservation of the environment and local culture.
Minister Uno outlined the government’s commitment to actively participate in the development of the 50 best tourism villages selected for the program, offering guidance and assistance. The focus remains on optimizing their potential, fortifying management structures, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
“The government will provide guidance to as many as 50 best tourism villages to assist them in optimizing their potentials, strengthening management, and ensuring sustainability,” Uno stated, reinforcing the holistic approach the ADWI program is adopting in 2024.
As Indonesia charts its course towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious tourism industry, the 2024 ADWI stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to fostering positive change at the grassroots level and championing the cause of responsible tourism.
