Tourism Ministry and ASTINDO Boost Competitiveness of Belitung as a Premier Destination

The Ministry of Tourism, together with the Association of Indonesian Travel Agents (ASTINDO), is strengthening Belitung’s competitiveness as a premier Indonesian destination through a Familiarization Trip (Famtrip) held from 31 May to 3 June 2026. Deputy for Marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini stated that this activity capitalises on the opportunity presented by the opening of a direct Singapore–Belitung flight by Scoot Airlines, which is expected to boost foreign tourist visits to Indonesia. The Famtrip brought travel and tourism industry players to see first-hand Belitung’s potential as a tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination. The destination boasts advantages in natural wealth, culture, and various community-based tourism experiences that are a distinct attraction for visitors. During the activity, participants were invited to explore Belitung’s leading attractions, from iconic beaches and island clusters to cultural and culinary tourism, as well as supporting facilities that could host national and international-scale MICE events. Through this initiative, it is hoped that understanding and awareness of Belitung in the international market will broaden, encouraging the creation of innovative and competitive tour packages to attract foreign tourists. Made assessed that the direct Scoot Airlines flight on the Singapore–Belitung route is a crucial momentum for strengthening destination accessibility. She noted that air connectivity is a primary factor in supporting tourism sector growth, and with greater access to Belitung, the opportunity for increased international tourist visits will be larger. Destination development cannot be done partially but requires strong collaboration between the government, industry, and various stakeholders. The Ministry of Tourism continues to encourage collaboration between the government, the aviation industry, tourism associations, and business players to deliver better accessibility while strengthening the competitiveness of Indonesian destinations in the global market. Pauline Suharno, Chairwoman of ASTINDO, added that the opening of the direct Singapore–Belitung route is a strategic step to strengthen international connectivity and expand access for foreign tourists to Indonesia’s premier destinations. Ease of access is a critical factor in enhancing a destination’s attractiveness and competitiveness amid an increasingly dynamic global tourism industry. Improved connectivity will strengthen Belitung’s position as a competitive tourism and MICE destination in the regional area. The collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism, ASTINDO, the aviation industry, and business players is expected to broaden Belitung’s promotional reach in the international market and support quality, inclusive, and sustainable tourism development.