Sandiaga Uno Admits It's Not Easy To Bring Tourists To Bali

Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno. (Photo: Instagram @sandiuno)

JAKARTA - Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Menparekraf) Sandiaga Uno said it was not fast to bring foreign tourists to Bali, even though international flights from I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport had been opened since October 14, 2021.

"There are several travel documents that must be prepared by tourists to visit Indonesia, in this case to Bali," said Menparekraf Sandiaga Uno, quoted from Antara, Tuesday, November 23.

The documents include buying plane tickets, because not all airlines have direct flights to Bali.

Then regarding visas and quarantine, which are currently being coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) with other relevant Ministries/Institutions (K/L) in order to provide convenience to tourists.

While waiting for foreign tourists to come to Bali, he continued, the preparation of destinations and creative economy centers continued to be carried out to comply with the CHSE-based health protocol (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, Environment Sustainability).

In addition, he continued, the preparation of quality and sustainable tourism is also the focus of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy so that tourists get an unforgettable experience.

Menparekraf stated that no foreign tourists had arrived in Bali by direct flights.

"The government continues to evaluate the policies that have been issued and monitor the situation of potential market countries, especially Australia," said Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno.

In addition, he said that the government would re-discuss quarantine rules, direct flight provisions, and visa policies, to make them more attractive and competitive with neighboring countries.

A number of neighboring countries are said to have opened and will gradually open tourism to foreign tourists.

"Thailand and Cambodia open tourism for foreign tourists without quarantine, while Langkawi (Malaysia) opens tourism for foreign tourists with regional quarantine. (As for) Singapore is expanding countries that cooperate with Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) including with Indonesia," said Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno.