Jakarta (ANTARA) - Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno believes the target of 1.4 million Australian tourists visiting Indonesia can be achieved in the subsequent few periods, given the enthusiasm of the country's people and industry players.
"I see the recovery of our tourism and creative economy sector. This will help job creation as well," the minister noted during a press conference in Bali as quoted in a press statement received here, Monday.
During his visit to Australia, Uno highlighted the great interest of the Australian community in visiting Indonesia's tourist destinations, especially Bali.
One of the Australian airlines, Jetstar, is reportedly operating three direct flight routes to Bali, thrice per week from Melbourne and Sydney, and daily flight from Perth.
One example is the Jetstar flight from Sydney to Denpasar, Bali, on April 10, 2022, which was carrying a total of 335 passengers. This condition is projected to last for the next few weeks on account of the fact that Australia is entering the Easter holiday period.
"The soaring demand for Australian tourists is caused by several policy relaxations carried out by the Indonesian government for international travelers, such as the no quarantine requirement, eliminating PCR-tests upon arrival, as well as expanding visas on arrival for 43 countries, including Australia," Uno pointed out.
The minister also seeks to improve accessibility, especially in terms of flight services, to handle the high interest in foreign tourists visiting Bali.
Related news: Indonesia ready to welcome Australian tourists: Minister Uno
This effort is made by encouraging foreign tourists from other countries to stop by for a few days in Bali before continuing their journey to Australia from Bali. This is for foreign tourists, on airlines with flight routes from Doha, Istanbul, and Dubai that are looking to go to Australia, to be able to transit in Bali.
"We will discuss this with the Ministry of Transportation, as Bali really needs it," Uno noted.
Meanwhile, Bali Deputy Governor Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana lauded Minister Uno and his staff for having given extraordinary attention to the Balinese people.
"I am happy that Minister Uno in Australia tried to provide an understanding and assurance that in Indonesia, especially in Bali, it is safe. Bali is ready to welcome tourists," he noted.
Related news: Fourfold rise in Australians visiting West Nusa Tenggara
