Attract Indonesian Tourists, Taiwan Offers Halal Tourism

JAKARTA Successfully holding the Taiwan Tourism Workshop 2025 in Bandung, the second day the event was continued at the Pullman Hotel, Central Park Jakarta.

Taiwan is currently getting serious about expanding the tourism market in Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia, which is considered one of the most potential markets.

This is reflected in the promotional strategy launched by Taiwan Tourism with the full support of Taipei Economic and Trade Office (Teto) in Indonesia.

Taiwan Tourism Information Center (TTIC) director at Jakarta Abe Chou said Taiwan's main attraction for Indonesian tourists this year focused on developing new flight routes, promoting diverse tourist attractions, and creating Muslim-friendly environments.

"We are working with airlines to open direct flight routes and shorten the distance, as well as offer various tour packages ranging from family tours, graduation programs, Taiwanese culinary experiences, expanding tourist destination areas, to tourist attractions with season themes," Abe explained.

Taiwan specifically also expands tourist destination areas for the Indonesian market.

Not only offering the beauty of Taipei City, Taiwan also introduced Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and Kenting.

Currently, tourists can enjoy the transition from summer to fall with the Air Balloon Festival in Taitung.

After that, tourists can feel the winter with popular hot springs, and close a festive year with fireworks.

Abe added that Indonesian tourists who go to Taiwan do not use toour or come independently.

"We have prepared the Taiwan Lucky Land program, where Indonesian tourists can draw a lottery to win 5.000 Taiwan dollars by only registering for at least 3 days before arrival to Taiwan," he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Representative Taipei Economic and Trade Office (Teto) in Indonesia Trust Lin emphasized that Teto acts as a bridge for tourism diplomacy.

"We support Taiwan Tourism in organizing exhibitions, roadshows, and media promotions in Indonesia. Teto is also a collaboration platform between travel agents, airlines, and industry players from both countries," he said.

Trust Lin also said that the Taiwanese government is reviewing policies to facilitate the entry of Indonesian tourists.

The move includes expanding e-visa services, simplifying group visas through travel agents, to the possibility of extending an easier visa-free or entry program.

"The goal is clear, reducing obstacles and increasing comfort for Indonesian tourists," said Trust Lin.

As of 2024, Indonesian tourists have touched 220,000.

The contribution of Indonesian tourists itself is considered quite significant. They are included in the top three Southeast Asian markets that contribute the most visits to Taiwan.

With the young and middle class populations continuing to develop, Indonesian tourists are strategic targets.

Currently, Taiwan is also intensifying Halal tourism that fits the target market for Indonesia.

In the future, the potential growth of Indonesia's tourism market to Taiwan is predicted to be even stronger in the next 3'5 years.

The combination of improving flight connectivity, Muslim-friendly services, and promoting culture and nature will make Taiwan a new favorite destination.

"We are optimistic that Indonesia will become one of the main contributors to Taiwan tourism growth," said Trust Lin.