Tourism Ministry and Law Ministry Collaborate to Protect Intellectual Property in Tourism Sector

The Ministry of Tourism (Kemenpar) is collaborating with the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) of the Ministry of Law (Kemenkum) to enhance the protection and utilisation of intellectual property to support the development of the national tourism sector. Representing the Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism Bayu Aji stated that this collaboration serves as a crucial foundation for both institutions in strengthening the protection and use of intellectual property, particularly geographical indications, within the tourism sector in accordance with legal provisions. Bayu emphasised that protecting intellectual property is a vital part of sustainable tourism governance. He noted that the goal is to ensure the added value of distinctive regional products is enjoyed by local communities and businesses at tourist destinations, rather than being claimed or exploited by unauthorised parties. Under the agreement, the Directorate General of Intellectual Property will provide facilitation, technical guidance, and assistance to the Ministry of Tourism in the process of protecting geographical indications for various superior products in tourism areas that possess distinctive regional characteristics. In return, the Ministry of Tourism will supply data and information on potential tourism sector products that can be registered as geographical indications, while integrating intellectual property protection efforts into the development of destinations and tourism products. This collaboration is expected to strengthen destination identity, increase the added value of local products, expand economic opportunities for communities, and maintain the authenticity and reputation of various superior regional products, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in both national and international markets. Bayu Aji expressed hope that this synergy between the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Law’s DJKI would be a strategic step in supporting tourism development that is not only oriented towards increasing tourist visits but also towards strengthening the community’s economy through the protection of regional intellectual assets. He added that the cooperation is intended to be a sustainable effort so that more distinctive products from Indonesian tourist destinations receive strong legal protection and become increasingly competitive in domestic and international markets.