2-7-2023 (JAKARTA) Borobudur Temple in Magelang District, Central Java, has the potential to attract a significant number of ASEAN tourists, according to Jamaludin Mawardi, the General Manager of PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko.
Mawardi expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We receive great support from government policies. ASEAN tourists can enter Indonesia without a visa.” He highlighted the convenience for tourists, explaining that they only need to bring their valid passports and can visit Indonesia for a few days before returning to their home countries.
He emphasized the ease of visiting Indonesia, as ASEAN tourists are not required to obtain a visa. In line with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy’s programs, Mawardi highlighted that countries in the Asian region, particularly ASEAN nations, remain the primary target for tourist visits to Borobudur. Additionally, regions in the Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and West Asia are also considered key markets.
Mawardi noted that ASEAN tourists have consistently accounted for the highest number of visitors to Borobudur, followed by tourists from Europe, particularly from Western European countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and France. Malaysians and Singaporeans continue to dominate the foreign visitors to Borobudur Temple, with 15,065 Malaysian tourists and 9,549 Singaporean tourists recorded in 2019.
He attributed the high number of visitors from Malaysia and Singapore to the availability of direct flights to Yogyakarta, which serves as a convenient gateway to Borobudur Temple. Mawardi expressed his hope that the Indonesian government would prioritize the “pilgrim” issue, especially for countries with a significant Buddhist population. This focus would contribute to an increase in the number of visits to Borobudur Temple.
Recognizing the government’s efforts in designating Borobudur Temple as a spiritual destination, particularly for Buddhists, Mawardi emphasized the relevance of this designation to the ASEAN region. He expressed optimism about the potential growth of the market, stating, “As long as the door remains open, the ASEAN region represents a significant market for us.”
With the support of government policies and the appeal of Borobudur Temple as a spiritual and cultural landmark, the potential for attracting more ASEAN tourists remains promising.
