20-11-2023 (JAKARTA) The Indonesian government has announced its anticipation of a significant surge in nationwide travel during the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays. According to Budi Karya Sumadi, the country’s Transportation Minister, approximately 107.63 million individuals are expected to embark on journeys across cities, provinces, or islands during the extended holiday periods. This figure represents a staggering 143.65% increase compared to last year’s year-end holiday, which saw 44.17 million people traveling.
Sumadi emphasized the remarkable nature of this surge, stating, “So, the increase is very significant, above 100 percent. Most of them are predicted to travel to tourist sites for vacations. The rest is for exodus, or going to their hometowns, which also have tourist destinations, to celebrate Christmas.” The minister’s statement highlights the dual purpose of the holiday travel, with individuals seeking both leisure destinations and visits to their hometowns, many of which boast tourist attractions.
Traditionally, during each holiday season, the top five provinces visited are East Java, Central Java, West Java, North Sumatra, and Yogyakarta, according to Sumadi. These regions have consistently attracted a large number of tourists during festive periods.
Considering the projected influx of travelers to tourist sites and the substantial use of private cars and motorcycles, the government, in collaboration with local authorities and traffic police, is implementing measures to alleviate potential traffic congestion.
