Among the destinations, Yogyakarta and Labuan Bajo are best known for their world-famous attractions – Borobudur Temple and Flores’ komodo dragons, respectively.
The ASEAN Tourism Forum 2023 was held in Yogyakarta, which already draws regional corporate meetings and incentive groups from Singapore, Malaysia and several other Asian countries. Labuan Bajo gained international recognition when it successfully hosted the ASEAN Summit in May 2023.
“The government remains committed to collaborating with local governments and other ministries and agencies to ensure and assist in preparing these destinations to be suitable for hosting international MICE events,” said Wisnu Sindhutrisno, director of tourism promotion for the Asia and Pacific Region, in Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.
“Our current promotional efforts include participation in MICE international trade shows, hosting MICE sales missions, as well as supporting and facilitating domestic MICE activities.”
Several airlines serve Yogyakarta from Southeast Asia. For Australian attendees, it is a short flight from Jakarta or Denpasar in Bali, which are also the gateway cities to Labuan Bajo – flight time from Denpasar is 70 minutes.
ATA Travel Services director Malia Sayuti said incentive traffic from Asia to Yogyakarta is growing.
“However, Australian visitors are mostly FITs and student groups. We look forward to receiving incentive groups too,” she said.
Global hotel brands Accor, Marriott and Melia are present in Yogyakarta. Melia Purosani Yogyakarta, for instance, draws on its meeting facilities and central location near popular attractions such as the Sultan’s palace and local market.
“Yogyakarta has great cultural appeal with lots of activities and is something of a novel destination, while still being able to offer all the requirements for meetings and events,” said Melia.
Labuan Bajo suits retreats and small groups seeking unique experiences. Five-star hotels include Meruorah Komodo Labuan Bajo, Ayana Komodo and Sudamala Resort, Komodo.
