Young Generation Key to Driving Sustainable Tourism Transformation

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa believes that the young generation, particularly Generation Z, is key to driving Indonesia’s tourism transformation towards a more sustainable direction.

“With their creativity, concern for the environment, and digital strength, the young generation can drive the emergence of tourism that is more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable,” said Ni Luh in an official statement confirmed in Jakarta on Thursday.

In the STDev Circle Series 3 webinar themed “Perspectives and Initiatives of Generation Z Youth: Strategies and Actions for Sustainable Tourism” in Jakarta on Wednesday (29/4), Ni Luh assessed that the young generation has a strategic role not only as enjoyers but also as drivers of change.

She continued that synergy between the government and the young generation is a key factor in strengthening the direction of sustainable tourism development in Indonesia. Through this forum, it is hoped that various new ideas will emerge that can drive the transformation of the tourism sector towards greater sustainability.

Special Staff for Sustainable Development and Conservation at the Ministry of Tourism Frans Teguh added that the young generation not only plays a role as drivers of creativity but also as a strategic target market.

Frans exemplified several issues that can serve as spaces for youth contributions, such as food waste processing and waste management. According to him, these movements are important to make tourism part of the solution for environmental sustainability and future life.

“I think these movements are increasingly needed because we want to be part of the solution for current and future life,” said Frans.

“We hope that this forum does not stop at discussion but is able to drive real actions relevant to sustainable tourism development, such as strengthening eco-tourism, zero waste movements, responsible travel campaigns, and cross-sector collaborations,” he stated.

Rector of Universitas Pelita Harapan Jonathan L. Parapak also affirmed that the role of the young generation in sustainable tourism development will align with strengthening the tourism sector as one of the drivers of the national economy.

“For the future of tourism, we must prepare even better,” said Jonathan.