Tourism to recover this year

JAKARTA (JP): Tourism in Indonesia should begin recover after political stability is restored following the general election in June, according to the Minister of Tourism, Art and Culture.

Marzuki Usman said at a meeting with German travel agents and writers here on Monday that he was optimistic that tourists would return to Indonesia in their former numbers once political uncertainties here have been resolved.

"A restoration of political stability will have a positive impact on all sectors of the economy. In 1999, we are optimistic that we can attract 3.5 million foreign tourists, just like in 1998," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

One member of the visiting delegation suggested that Indonesia should make a greater effort to promote itself abroad and to explain the political situation here.

Marzuki replied that Indonesia would have difficulty funding any such campaign.

"Many of our tourism promotion offices abroad have been closed and their tasks temporarily taken over by our embassies and Indonesian overseas student associations," Marzuki said. (02)