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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Musi Triboatton 2012
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012 www.ultimoparadiso.com BOARD of DIRECTOR
Dewantoro Umbu Joka Tonny Wijadjanto
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EDITOR IN CHIEF
Igo Kleden
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REPORTER Tri Wibowo
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[email protected] Tania Yudick Ariant
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Overseas: Malaysia - maxiINFO, 32-3-1, Jalan Medan Putra 4 Medan Putra Business Centre. Off Jalan Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur. Australia - Mr. Andre Wecklif Antonio. T, D/a 262 Wardel rd, Dulwich Hill-Sydney – NSW – 2203. Australia. THAILAND - Andrea Capucci, 94/23 Wichitsongkram Rd. Kathu, Phuket 83120, Ph. 076 249 688. WASHINGTON DC - Aria Salaka 19233 - Wheatfield Terrace - Gaitthersburg, MD 20879. CANADA - Johanne Dube, 152, rue Notre-Dame est, 8 etage, Montreal, Qc, Canada H2Y 3p6. NETHERLAND - Vrijburglaan 72051 LA Overveen +31 235253619. ITALY - Viaggi del Mappamondo, Viale Regina Margherita 270 - 00198, Rome, Ph. +39 06 48789200, Fax. +39 06 4815506. FRANCE - Europasia Commercial Agency, 15, rue Vallete 75005, Paris. GERMANY - Hattersheimerstr, 19, Frankfurt 60326. CZECH REPUBLIC - Mr. Miroslav Radakovic, Na Zamecke 6/409 140 000 Prague Czech Republic, Ph. +420 261219316 - 19, Fax. +261 219320. CUBA - Viaggi del mappamondo - Cuba, c/o Hotel Sevilla, Trocadero y Zuleta y Prado, 55, La Habana, Ph./Fax. +53 07 8669767. SLOVENIA - Miss. Polona Pirnat, c/o Kompas D.D, Prazakova 4, 1514, Ljubyana, Slovenia.
Musi Triboatton to Gain Success
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fter going down the Musi River as far as 500 Kilometers, Musi Triboatton participants were finally arrived in Palembang, South Sumatra, on Saturday (01/11/2012). Starting with unique art performances from South Sumatra and the giving out of medals, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Wamen Parekraf), Sapta Nirwandar officially closed the event. “All gave much appreciation on the event and if there were some drawbacks then it is acceptable for this is the first time we held the event in Indonesia and in the world,” Sapta said when closing the event. Sapta considers the need for infrastructure improvements in tourism sector in all regencies passed by the participants. He also reiterated that he believes this event can be as good as Tour de Singkarak. “This will be an annual event and will be as big as Tour de Singkarak, especially after all regencies have synergized and shown enthusiasm in welcoming this sport and tourism event,” said Sapta. According to Sapta Musi River has natural beauty that might become one of the leading tourist attractions in the country. “By combining the concepts of sport and tourism of course later this event will be in demand by tourists both local and international,” Sapta said.
photo by tri wibowo
Distribution Domestic: BALI - Kuta, Ngurah Rai Airport, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Denpasar and Ubud Area. JAKARTA - Ahmad Sufyani - Jl. Tomang Raya No. 63 - Jakarta 11440. Surabaya - Jl.Jend.Basuki Rahmat 129-137, Surabaya 60271, Ph : 031 – 5316364, Fax: 031 – 5315435. Yogyakarta - Jl.Rumah Makan Gudeg 60 Citro, Laksda Adisucipto Km 9, Yogyakarta 55281, Ph.0274-488663. Manado - Resort Scuba Diving-Liveboard. Manado, Hp. 08114303655 / 081 340 247 788 Fax. 656720685, LOMBOK - Lombok Eksotis, Jl. Adi Sucipto No. 43, Ampenan - Lombok 83234, Ph. (0370) 643014, Fax (0370) 646840. KUPANG - Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan III/38 - Walikota Kupang Phone: 0380 822102 SUMBA BARAT - Jl. Sudirman No. 5 Waikabubak - Sumba Barat. SUMBA TIMUR - Melanthon, Jl. Eltari No. 41 Matawai - Sumba Timur, Ph. 081353977788, 085239118181. LABUAN BAJO Martin Meotoda, Ph. 081338151744
photo by tri wibowo
MARKETING GRAPHIc DESIGNER
12 champions Musi triboatton 20
focus
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my indonesia
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bali
Sumatra II to win Musi International Triboatton
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bali
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island explorer
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nusantara
The team of South Sumatra II has successfully won the Musi International Triboatton after collecting 76 points and defeating participants from several countries including Indonesia. South Soumatra I is on the second position with the 70 points and followed by Jakarta team with the score of 62 on the third position. On the fourth position is another team from Indonesia, West Java, which is followed by Cambodia, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sapta Nirwandar, said the first Musi Triaboatton focuses on the tourism event instead of the sport event considering the beautiful tourism potentials offered by Musi River and the route, which is quite challenging. However, for the next Triboatton will emphasize more on the quality of the participants invited. (*)
photo by tri wibowo
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Tour de Singkarak has successfully promoted and developed tourism in West Sumatra. “At the beginning, a lot of people don’t know where Singkarak is. They finally know it from Tour de Singkarak and now tourists keep coming to Singkarak. Hopefully it also happens here, “Sapta said. Musi River was chosen for it is considered to be ready to become the object of river tourism based on the beauty and condition of the river. River tourism is not popular yet in Indonesia, unlike in some other developed countries. Meanwhile, the Technical Team Coordinator Effendi Soen also stated that the Musi Tribotton has successfully managed and gained success. “This is the first and the most important is that we can achieve zero accident,” said Effendi. This year, Musi Triboatton was followed by 10 participating teams, namely from Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Yogyakarta, South Sumatra I, South Sumatra II, Jakarta, West Java and also International School, whose members are from various countries such as Germany, Lithuania , Poland, the United States, Japan and Denmark. In this event the participants gaining a total prize of Rp 500 million. The participants were sailing along the Musi River as far as 500 kilometers that consisted of six stages on three different boats, namely the inflatable boats, canoes and dragon boats. They had to go through four districts namely, Empat Lawang, Musi Rawas, Musi Banyuasin, Banyuasin and ended in the city of Palembang.
CV. Paradiso Timur Raya Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai No. 620 Suwung, Denpasar-Bali-Indonesia P/F: +62 361 - 727010 E:
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photo by tri wibow
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Opening ceremony Mu si Triboatton 2012
Participants compete in the river musi
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Lombok increasingly popular in the U.S. Market
photo by spc
Indonesia Seriously Develops Cruise Tourism
Lombok International Airport
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rends in information retrieval of airfare and hotels in Lombok via search site Wego.com is increasing this year. Globally, during January - September 2012 there is a growth of 41% when compared to the same period last year. The most rapid growth came from the United States. One out of five searches is accessed by Wego users in the United States. This trend is in line with the increasing number of tourists visiting Lombok in the first half of 2012. Data of Culture and Tourism Bureau of West Nusa Tenggara showed that the number of tourists visiting Lombok increased 36% in the first half of 2012 compared with the first half of 2011. The number of tourists to Lombok in January - June 2012 recorded nearly 500 thousand people. Thus, it seems that the target of 1 million tourists set for Visit Lombok Sumbawa would not be difficult to achieve given the number of visits in the second half is always up. The visit is still dominated by domestic tourists. However, the number of foreign tourists increased by 47% in the first half compared to last year. In January-September 2012, more than half of Wego users in 52 countries who were looking for information on air tickets to Lombok accessed the information through Wego.co.id. Others were accessible from
abroad, such as through the United States, Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia. Most surprisingly, the number of searches from the United States jumped to 20% of the total global search. “We see a trend of search various new destinations in Indonesia, either by local or foreign,” explains Graham Hills, Managing Director Wego Indonesia. Hills said, “Bali probably still the most requested, but Lombok is increasingly popular along with the easy public access to information about Lombok online. Predictably, these factors can increase the number of visits to Lombok. “In the future, advanced Hills, exciting destinations such as Padang, Wakatobi or Manado can also be a popular destination in Indonesia.”All three destinations will also be the focus of an online search of the travelers,” he added.
Favorite Airline Lion Air is still the most favorite airline flying to Lombok. Starting from January to September 2012, as many as 57% of Wego users in Indonesia who went to Lombok chose Lion Air. The Garuda Indonesia selected by one of the five people who accessed Wego.co.id to plan their trip to Lombok. And, nearly 15% of the other uses Batavia Air. Popular departure cities are still in Jakarta and Surabaya.
The Wego users abroad who want to go to Lombok is also familiar with Lion Air. As many as one in three of them chose Lion Air in January-September 2012. Others, nearly 29% are using Garuda Indonesia, 6% used Singapore Airlines, and 6% used Batavia Air. Interestingly, as the opening of new routes, Air Asia Kuala Lumpur-Lombok with its premier flight on October 12, 2012, there was a surge in flight bookings through Wego. Nearly 5% of total overseas Wego users, who will go to Lombok, chose Air Asia in September 2012. “Access to Lombok increasingly becomes easy with the new route. The opening of Lombok International Airport also supports the growth of the hospitality industry in Lombok, and in turn can increase the number of tourists, “said Hills. The hospitality industry in Lombok is growing. In 2012 there is the addition of 40 star-hotels with a total 2453 rooms. The number of search for hotels in Lombok through search sites Wego also increased by 10 times compared to last year. Mostly from Jakarta (53%) and Surabaya which reached almost 10% of the total searches. Here are five most favorite hotels among the Wego users in Indonesia: Santosa Villas and Resort, Novotel Lombok Hotel, Angel Hotel, Kuta Indah Hotel and Puri Mas Boutique Resorts & Spa. (*)
Waste starts polluting Lake Toba
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not throw garbage into the lake, structuring settlements and cages, and preventing land and forest fires,” he said. He added that we have Act 32 of 2009 on the Protection and Management of the Environment, which put a strong emphasis on the importance of the role of the community that includes social supervision, advice,
photo by spc
omestic waste is causing environmental pollution problems in Lake Toba, North Sumatra. This problem should be overcome soon. Spatial settlements that are not well arranged and domestic waste matter are the main problems. Minister of Environment Balthasar Kambuaya said that Lake Toba is a center of culture and heritage habitat of Batak ethnic communities. The lake covers the area of 1130 kilometers with a length of 275 kilometers and a width of 150 kilometers. It has special characteristics that cannot be found in other lakes. “Toba Lake has a maximum depth of 529 meters in the north and 429 meters in the south. The weather here is cool due to its location, which is at 905 meters above sea level. The area is renowned as a center of Batak cultural development with hundreds of villages that have abundant natural resources and biodiversity, “he said. He also said that the ecosystem of Lake Toba is disturbed by the destruction of land and forests around the lake that resulted in the declining water quality and discharge. In addition, the biological richness is partially lost. Commitment of local government is also required to be strengthened as well as the participation of the whole society. “That participation can be started with simple acts ranging from planting trees, do
Lake Toba
Indonesia Aims 3.5 Million ASEAN Tourists in 2013
photo by spc
photo by spc
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ndonesia has committed to realizing the desire to become a cruise tourist destination that attracted tourists from all over the world, stated the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Wamen Parekraf), Sapta Nirwandar. “We’ve launched a determination of Indonesia to make this country as a world cruise tourist destination,” said Sapta in Jakarta. He further said that together with a number of stakeholders, the ministry has developed a few steps to realize that determination. One of them is by setting the Benoa harbor in Bali as “turning point” port for world cruise ships. “International cruise ships that have visited Indonesia have the average capacity up to more than 2,000 people,” he said. In addition, today’s cruise ships owned by big cruise ship company even has operated ships with capacity of up to 6,000 passengers. Therefore, Sapta said, Indonesia would continue to anticipate this and be prepared to receive large ships and small boats given the potential places visited in the country and various interesting tourist attraction. He said that the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has formed an internal task force to handle the marketing and development of cruise tourism. He argues the development of cruise tourism in Indonesia should be treated more seriously to make Indonesia as a world-class and sustainable cruise destination. Sapta considers cruises in Indonesia to have bright prospects due to the rapid growth of the middle class in Asia and Australia as key market cruise tourism in Indonesia. This is indicated by the high demand for cruise ships to Indonesia with the planned growth in the number of cruise ship passengers to Indonesia around 160,000 passengers with cruise call as many as 300 calls in 2013, an increase of 40 percent compared to 2012. (*)
opinions, suggestions and objections. The role of traditional leaders is also important in increasing role in the preservation of the ecosystem of Lake Toba. That is by reminding to work together hand in hand to preserve the environment and prevent pollution and environmental damage, “he said. (*/ant)
Sapta Nirwandar
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eputy Minister of Tourism & Creative Economy Sapta Nirwandar, in Jakarta said that Indonesia is targeting to attract at least 3.5 million foreign tourists from ASEAN in 2013. “We are targeting to attract 3.5 million foreign tourists from ASEAN countries next year. Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy expects to gain 1.75 million tourists from Singapore, 1.4 million tourists from Malaysia, 315,000 tourists fron the Philippines, and the rest from other countries in ASEAN, “he said. It is said, over the years, ASEAN has become the largest contributor of foreign tourists to Indonesia from year to year. If we put more focus then the ASEAN economies will grow relatively high. Thus, this will encourage the growth of ASEAN tourism in the world market, “said Nirwandar. “In the period from January to August 2012, the number of foreign tourist visits to Indonesia has reached 5.2 million, which is dominated by tourists from Singapore (788 249 people) and Malaysian (704 644 people). Therefore, the Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy has set several priority events to work on the ASEAN market. He added, some of which will be conducted in 2013 such as the participation in the largest tourism market in Singapore namely NATAS Travel Fair and NATAS Holiday. While in Malaysia, the ministry will also encourage and facilitate Indonesian tourism businesses to participate in the largest tourism market in the neighboring country the Matta Fair. “In addition, we also always synergize marketing initiatives in the areas of tourist destination that can be efficient and effective program both quantitatively and qualitatively. Some of the most popular tourist destinations for ASEAN tourists are Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Bali, and Lombok, “he said. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Jakarta to Become Top Travel Destination in Asia A
lthough the city is famous for its traffic jams, according to TripAdvisor survey (the world’s largest travel site) the city ranked top for the popular tourist destination in Asia. TripAdvisor announced the winners of the award 2012 Travellers’ Choice ® Destinations on the based on travelers’ vote in 2012. This award provides an appreciation for destinations that experienced an increase in positive feedback and interest over the previous year. 10 best destinations in the world that are increasingly gaining popularity have been selected, as well as a list of 10 best tourist destinations for the U.S., Europe, Asia, South Pacific and South America. “Interestingly, Jakarta is tops for tourist destination in Asia, defeating other tourist destinations such as Osaka, Kathmandu, Chiang Mai and Phnom Penh,” said Jean-Ow Yeong, TripAdvisor spokesperson. Jane further said that the award is a token of appreciation for those cities not only by the growing interest of tourists but also increased positive feedback about the hotel, restaurants and activities to do in those cities. (*)
Top 10 Travel Destination in Asia:
photo by spc
1. Jakarta, Indonesia 2. Kathmandu, Nepal 3. Kolkata, India 4. Manila, Philippines 5. Bangalore, India 6. Luang Prabang, Laos 7. Phnom Penh, Cambodia 8. Chiang Mai, Thailand 9. Kobe, Japan 10. Osaka, Japan
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ssociation of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA) urged domestic airlines to revise the portion of ticket sales commission to 7% -9% for travel agents and sub-travel agent. Asnawi Bahar, Chairman of ASITA said the ideal portion of the commission could reach 7% to 9% for the subagent and travel agents so they can both grow. During this time, the sub-travel agent only gets 3% commission, while travel agents get 5% of the ticket sales. “Revision of the commission portion agreement is considered to inhibit the growth of travel agents and the seat load factor of each airline itself. It is because ticket sales benefit sharing of national airline, especially Garuda Indonesia, is quite large, “he said. He said that when it is viewed from the profits of the airline, the airline actually has a larger share of profit, which is believed to be able to pay a portion of a commission of about 12% to 13%. In that context, the portion of the commission to the travel agent is too small. “In addition, difficulty encountered is related to online ticket sales by the airline company. Application of on-line ticket sales seems to shift the role of travel agents, “he said. Another problem also occurs when airline companies give cash back to the corporation as well as establish partnership with banks through a credit card. Moreover, there is one national airline that only accepts payment transactions on the branches. That causes all the profit goes to the airline company itself. “Currently, ASITA has 7,000 members comprising travel agents and sub-travel agent in Indonesia. There is no downward trend in the number of travel agent due to the lack of commission. What happens is we do not sell tickets from the airline, “he said. He explained that, as a concrete step, he said, ASITA will send a proposal that will be discussed with the airline in the country. In addition, the proposal will also be submitted to a number of ministries that determines the regulation of the business trip. (*)
Targeting more British tourists at the World Tourism Market
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inistry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) attempt to attract more British tourists in the world’s second largest tourism mart the World Tourism Market (WTM) 2012 which took place in the Excel building London, UK, 5-8 November 2012. Director of Imaging Indonesia Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), Esthy Reko Astuti in a press conference held in the Excel, London said that the UK is a very important market for Indonesia. “The UK is one of the main markets of Indonesian tourism. The number of British tourists visiting Indonesia from year to year is increasing. Until September 2012, British tourists who come on holiday in Indonesia reached 152,379 compared to September 2011, which were only 145 655 travelers. There is an increase of 12.96%, “she said. The increase of tourist arrivals to Indonesia from England is also expected to have an impact on travelers in Europe to Indonesia. Indonesia is targeting 200,000 tourists from the UK. In 2012, Indonesia focuses the promotion on the 16 focus markets, namely Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, China, Japan, Korea Republic, USA, UK, Taiwan, India, France, The Netherlands, Germany, The Philippines, Russia and the Middle East. “For the destination, it is focused on 16 destinations Beyond Bali, namely, Lake Toba, Pulau Seribu (Thousand Island), Sunda Kelapa and the Old Town, Borobudur,
“Indonesia is targeting 200,000 tourists from the UK and is expected to be achieved through promotion on the media of taxi around the city of London. This is the second promotion using the media of taxi in London. She further said that the goal of this participation in WTM 2012 and promotion is to strengthening the position of Indonesia in the arena of world tourism industry as well as effort to initiate imaging existence of Indonesia’s role as the official Partner Country of ITB Berlin 2013. (*/ant)
Kintamani-Lake Batur, Menjangan, Rinjani, Ende, Kalimutu, Tanjung Putting, Bunaken, Raja Ampat, Bromo, Tengger and Semeru, Komodo, Wakatomi, Toraja, Kuta, Sanur and Nusa Dua, “she said. She added that the seven special interest tourism promoted included culture and heritage, nature and ecotourism, recreation, sports, cruise, culinary and sports and MICE. Meanwhile, Indonesian ambassador to England Hamzah Thayeb said that the presence of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in London, recently at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth is a good promotion for tourism in Indonesia in the UK. Additionally Embassy in London has always held tourism promotion activities related to TTI (trade, tourism and investment). “The promotion performed so far is also directed to introduce the attractions Beyond Bali, which is also equally attractive to Bali,” he said.
Wonderful Indonesia in London Taxi At least 250 taxis become iconic and popular in London, England, which are known as the black cab. The cabs help promoting tourism of Indonesia. “Wonderful Indonesia” is printed on the taxi and this phrase is quite popular among tourists. Reko Esthy Astuty said that a promotion through the media of taxi in an effort to strengthen the image of Indonesia in major markets, especially in the UK.
photo by spc
photo by spc
ASITA Demand Commission Increase for Domestic Airline Tickets
Esthy Reko Astuti
Indonesia Interested in Establishing Cooperation on marine tourism with Greece
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ndonesia Ambassador to Greece Benny Bahanadewa is interested in exploring the possibility of cooperation in the field of marine tourism with Greece, particularly the island of Chios, with some areas in Indonesia. The intention was revealed during a visit to the island of Chios, which location is close to Turkey and only separated by the Chios Strait. The ambassador came at the invitation of the Mayor of Chios to celebrate the 100 years of freedom of Chios region.
According to the First Secretary Embassy in Athens, Jani Mediawati Sasanti, the ranks of local government and Chios community seem keen to attend a series of memorial events centered on Chios Town Hall. “The commemoration was enlivened by cultural arts parade of Chios community and the Greek military parade. Celebration of 100 years of the liberation of Chios coincides with the commemoration of the liberation of Chios from Turkey in 1912, “she said.
Though the commemoration was carried out in an atmosphere of concern economic conditions in Greece, Chios Government has made the anniversary celebration as an effort to encourage the presence of foreign tourists visiting Chios. “Tourists who visit Chios are mostly from Turkey and other European countries. Asian tourists, particularly from China, also came as part of travel packages to Izmir, Turkey, Athens and Greece, “he said. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Cultural Diversity in KKPI 2012
Indonesia Fashion Ready to Go Global
moderator.
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ndonesia Culture Youth Congress (KKPI) was held last month at the Hotel Borobudur, Central Jakarta. In these activities, the Ministry of Education and Culture (Kemdikbud) Mohammad Nuh said the youth gathering throughout Indonesia was initiated by Kemdikbud together with youth leaders as youth awakening momentum to take part in cultural movement. “We expect Indonesia’s youth congress to be a milestone in the rise of youth in development of culture and nation building in general,” said Mohammad Nuh On the same occasion, Minister of People’s Welfare Agung Laksono said that the Indonesian youth culture congress first held with the theme and motto of “Indonesia I’m Proud,” character building, creativity, and solidarity with the aim of building a vision and
steps together and integrated in strengthening cultural position as a commander in the development of new Indonesia. Minister of Education on behalf of the government expressed his gratitude and highest appreciation to all the youth who have chosen to come with all the work, contribution of thought, care and attention given in developing cultures. Wamendikbud of Cultural Affairs, Wiendu Nuryanti added, congress took place from on 6 - 9 November 2012 in Jakarta with various sources and inspiration from the respective fields such as Gede Prama, Firmansyah, Sukesti Martono (city government), Arie Soejito, Edo Kondologit, Innayah Wahid, Johannes Marbun, and many more with Charles Bonar Sirait, Yudi Latif, Sprott Ridwan, and Radhar Panca Dahana as the
“Besides the congress, there was also an exhibition of the works of Indonesian youth in various fields involving 63 orchestra musicians, 19 ethnic musicians, 33 choirs and 45 dancers. There was also performance of some soloists such as Putri Ayu, Michel So’e, Angel Pieters, Wildan Angklung, Jemek Supardi, and Taufik Ismail, “said Wiendu Nurianti. On the same occasion, the KKPI committee chairman, Marcella Zalianty, the cultural arts performances has the theme of “Konser Tembang Negeriku” led by Dwiki Darmawan. Marcella hopes that the presence of KKPI can strengthen national unity of Indonesia, which consists of various ethnic, religious differences, and diverse cultures. Those aspects that enrich Indonesia should be maintained and preserved. The young generation of Indonesia should be proud of the diversity of Indonesian culture. Differences should not hinder the spirit of developing Indonesia. The congress presented nine young achievers, namely, Nancy Margried Panjaitan (Co-founder in Pixel Indonesia), Indonesia Batik Fractal, Cicilia Maharani, Mary Magdalene Kusumawardhani (young researcher in languages and culture), Cholil Mahmud (personnel of efek rumah kaca band), M Alif Fauzi ( u-antri.com site creator), Adhyatmika (winner of the annual competition Democracy Video Challenge 2010 in the USA), Gamelan Totoel (inventor of toetoel gamelan), SMK N 4 Bandung (inventor of animation and IT products such as tablet PCs, laptops, Deskbook , and penbook), and SMKN 4 Rorotan, North Jakarta (inventor batik tulis machine). (*)
photo by spc
photo by tri wibowo
Nine Young Achievers
tion and declaration were held in the Creative Economy Forum. Creative Economy Forum aims to explore in depth about how the process of the Young Creative Entrepreneurs start their passion in the creative world. This is to motivate and show the audience, that it can be done and achieved. The selection also has a goal to declare the creative movement initiated by the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, thus becoming the basis for implementing creative programs based on the declaration of the Young creative Entrepreneurs. Attending the event young creative entrepreneurs of Indonesia such as Dennis Adishwara (Director, Actor), Chantal Della Concetta (TV Presenter), Gianti Giadi (Dancer), Rachmania Arunita (Author), Kevin Mintaraga (Magnivate CEO), Ahmad Rofiq (CEO of K-deep Animation Studio), Sunny Gho (Managing Director Makko Publishing and IFS), Kristupa Saragih (Photographer), Radi Arwinda (Artist), Andrew Dervish (Kaskus Founder), Rinrin Marinka (Celebrity Chef), Danny Wicaksono (Architect) Arief Widhiyasa (CEO of Agate Studio) and guided by Benny Fajarai. (*)
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overnor of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Frans Lebu Raya said in addition to preserving the natural and cultural potential of NTT, Sail Komodo 2013 also aims to improving the economy and the welfare of local communities. “Sail Komodo 2013 Activities is undertaken to promote attractions in East Nusa Tenggara province to foreign countries. So it can strengthen the potential for increased economic and social welfare by increasing employment opportunities, especially in the fields of marine, fisheries, tourism and transportation, “he said. He said that in order to support these activities, NTT provincial government is developing all the potential of tourism in order to attract tourists to the province Sail Komodo 2013 is also beneficial to preserve the natural and cultural potential of NTT, as well as to prepare NTT as the main destination of world tourism in the frame of regional cooperation between the province of Bali, NTB and NTT.
“Sail Komodo which will be held from July 27, 2013 is also useful to improve the knowledge of marine, marine environmental conservation awareness, the ability to optimize the use of marine resources as a source of economic and people’s lives,” he said. He added that the central government was not sure about the implementation of Sail Komodo 2013 held at NTT at the beginning, as the event takes quite a long time. The route of Sail Komodo 2013 consists of Kupang as the entry point and then followed by East Sumba, Central Sumba, West Sumba, West Sumba Power, Nagekeo, Ngada, Ngada, Sikka, Ende and Lembata as well as West Manggarai as the center activities of Sail Komodo 2013. While new destinations of Sail Komodo 2013 are Atapupu in Belu regency, Wini in North Central Timor (TTU) and Soe in South Central Timor (TTS). The welcoming of participants Sail Komodo 2013 is scheduled to be conducted in Kupang by the Vice President of the Republic
of Indonesia, Boediono and in the cities that will be visited by the participants during the events by the Minister, the Director General (DG) or head of district. The main opening of Sail Komodo 2013 will be done by President of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. “NTT provincial government proposed to the central government the budget of Rp3. 7 billion for the preparation and implementation of Sail Komodo 2013. The budget will be used for the improvement of facilities and infrastructure and attractions welcome Sail Komodo 2013, “he said. (*)
Frans Lebu Raya
Indonesia Promotion Eying on Suzhou Wuzhong, Shanghai
photo by spc
Frans Lebu Raya: Sail Komodo to Promote NTT Abroad
photo by spc
photo by tri wibowo
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esponding to the development of creative industries in the country, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) has characterized the creative industries into several sub-sectors. Subsector includes the media industry; television and radio; advertising; computer services and software; interactive games; culinary; film; videos and photos; industry also includes art performing arts; architecture; research and development; publishing and printing; musical; fashion; design; craft, and art and antiques market. Accordingly, it becomes important to grow the spirit of creative entrepreneurship for young people of Indonesia, of course with
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lobalizing Indonesian designer talents to the global market becomes the embodiment and aspirations for Jakarta Fashion Week (JFW) 2013. The opening of Buyers’ Room program has become a bridge to open up opportunities for local works worldwide. The attempt of Jakarta Fashion Week (JFW) 2013 to promote the local potentials to world level has become more obvious. The event is not merely presenting the beauty of the designers’ works in front of the international designers, but also providing showrooms and special transactions where local designers and international buyers can meet. “This is a significant step of JFW to support the advancement of fashion industry in Indonesia. The presence of the foreign buyers is certainly going to make the works of our designers can enter the global market, “said Svida Alisjahbana in Plaza Senayan, Jakarta. Total designers selected by the curatorial team of JFW 2013 are as many as 23 designers and the Buyer’s Room is located in Sentral Senayan 2, which serves as an exhibition of some Indonesian designers whose creations will be seen by local and foreign retail buyers. According to Svida, the program is more directed and focused to explore the works of local designers in the eyes of buyers. Not only that, they also receive a lot of lessons regarding what kind of designs that the buyers want to be sold in retail. Collection, price, branding, marketing strategies are all trained in the program. And this becomes a wonderful first step to advance the local fashion industry in the eyes of the world, because the buyers who came were world class. Svida expects the event to be better improved in the future. Event that has been held for the fifth time brought more than 59 fashion shows and featured more than 180 designers, who presented their latest collections from 3 to 9 November 2012. This year, JFW 2013 has the theme of “Indonesia Today, The World Tomorrow”. This theme is taken to indicate that Indonesia is ready to enter the world fashion industry market. This determination is not without a strong foundation. The impact and reach of JFW has been recognized by professionals in the industry, from fashion journalists, photographers, stylists, to buyers from abroad. This is the most important; because it is the buyer who directly introduces Indonesian fashion products overseas. (*)
Indonesia Creative Youth Icon the expectation that the nation’s creative industries will continue to grow. One of the strategies is by presenting young icons of the creative industries from each sub-sector. Creative Young Entrepreneur Icon should have a positive track record that will inspire young people. The Creative Young Entrepreneurs are chosen based on their breakthrough that has been successfully led the company to take advantage of creativity to achieve business goals, to inspire a broad audience to make creativity a part of the lifestyle, and have displayed skill beyond people at their age. They are selected by consensus of media, which includes Marketing Magazine, Hai!, along with the digital creative industries consultant Kibar Kreasi, Indonesia Kreatif from Ministry of Tourism and creative Economy and research institution YouthLab. The next strategy is to make an official declaration for the Creative Young Entrepreneurs by Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Mari Elka Pangestu. It is intended as a first step for a variety of creative programs that will be implemented by Kemenparekraf. Both of these strategies - the elec-
Jakarta fashion Week 2012
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uzhou City of Wuzhong District, Zhejiang Province, China is a new market that will be explored by Indonesia in developing the tourism industry. Head of Promotion Sub-Division for Asia Region Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), Jordi Paliaman in Shanghai, China said that Indonesia representatives had met officials from Suzhou Wuzhong District on December 8, 2012 and later they plan to visit Indonesia for promoting their tourism. “Twelve officials of Suzhou Wuzhong were led by the Deputy Director of Suzhou Wuzhong District, Ba Sheng and Deputy of Promotion, Do Yang. The Indonesian delegation was led by Director of Tourism Promotion of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), Nia Niscaya at Shanghai Pudong Intercontinental Hotel, “he said. It said the economic potential of the area is good and many Indonesian people live in that area. Suzhou city of Wuzhong District can be reached through the Shanghai city, which takes about 1 hour, to the south. “The city is one of the producers of silk in China and is a student city,” he said. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
operation will impact on the emergence of unilateral claims of cultural products of Indonesia by the Government of Malaysia as well as with the cultural products and traditions in DIY and surrounding areas, such as batik of Yogyakarta, batik lurik of Klaten and Gudeg from Yogyakarta. “No, do not worry about it. Through this cooperation, agreement with the four cities later can enhance their knowledge and understanding of each other’s culture so there won’t be any claim problems in the future, “he said. It is said, in addition to the field of culture and tourism, joint programs between the city government and the government of George Town, Ipoh and Kinabalu and also covers the area of education, economy and trade. While Mayor George Town Dato Patahiyah bint ‘Ismail said that Yogyakarta and George Town have their own advantages and disadvantages in the field of tourism. Thus, both cities need to work together and complement each other to obtain better results. Similarly, the Mayor of Kinabalu, Madingkir Abidin said that Kinabalu in Sabah region has such eco tourism as the main attraction, namely the tropical forest and sea. “Yogyakarta also has an excellent tourism potential, which is its culture and we need to learn about the development of this type of tourism attraction,” he said. (*)
Batik Air
Condominium Hotel to become Trend in Property Investment
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pparently the trend to have a condominium hotel (condotel) as property investment is quite high. This can be seen from the increasing number of family who buy Condotel units built in a tourist area. Roy Sindhunirmala, CEO of Twenty One Development said Condotel like Benoa Hotel Eden, which will be built at Benoa, Bali, 50% of the units offered to special investors has been sold out. “In fact, the physical construction of Benoa Hotel Eden will begin in March 2013, and be completed by July 2015. The soft opening will be done in November 2015. We will build 207 units and 100 of them are sold to investors with the status of freehold, without a rental guarantee. The remaining 107 units will be hold, “he said. The Condotel is built on an area of 20,000 square meters, consists of 5 floors and one basement with 4 types of room. The concept is natural & tropical and modern minimalist with the amenities equal to a 4 star hotel. “Condotel is designed for people who want to invest in property. Selling price per unit ranges from Rp 2 billion to Rp 5 billion with an estimated return on investment (ROI) of 19% pa. The total investment reached 500 billion, “he said. (* / Bisnis.com)
Tamansari water castle at Yogyakarta
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hree cities in Malaysia, George Town, Ipoh and Kinabalu signed a letter of intent (LoI) with the City Government of Yogyakarta to strengthen cooperation in the development of tourism in the four cities. Mayor of Yogyakarta, Haryadi Suyuti said
that through this partnership, each can learn and provide input for the development of the tourism sector so that the industry can well developed and the four cities can support each other. He rejected concerns saying that the co-
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ndonesia is leading among ASEAN countries in terms of labors’ competencies in the field of tourism and the labor certification has been granted for 21,500 workers. Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Mari Elka Pangestu said the certification given symbolically to the 33 representative of the 250 tourism labors that include those who work in hotel and restaurant, spa, travel business, tour guide, caterer service, MICE, diving instructor, eco tourism guide, rafting and museum guide. “Certification is subsidized by the government for the ASEAN Economic Community 2012. In the case of Indonesia tourism competency standard is not only leading in the case of HR certification, but since 2003 we also contribute to making the ASEAN level competency standards, “she said. She said that from 2003 until now, almost 50% of the target 50,000 certified tourism employment has been reached. Other countries such as Japan that applies the certification of standard of competency in the tourism field has also reached 50% of the target. “The problem that many countries, includ-
ing Indonesia, have to deal with is the lack of individual awareness to get a certification of competence for currently it is still voluntary. Of the total 21,500 personnel who are certified, she added, the most certification is given to those working in the areas of hotel and restaurant as much as 9590 people, while the smallest is the museum with only 300 people, “she said. Mari added that the ministry is currently working on preparing the standards of competence for creative economy and its infrastructure such as certification bodies and the assessors. So far, standard of competence available is for the fields of architecture, film and dance. “Hopefully the actors of the creative economy in 2014 would have been able to conduct competency standards as practiced in the tourism industry. We hope that labors are not only waiting for government subsidies but could be self-sufficient in terms of funding of the certification for the benefit of their competence will be internationally recognized and later they will be able to work in foreign countries, “she said. (*)
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Indonesia has the most number of competent tourism labors in ASEAN
2013, Garuda International Open Three New Routes
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Emirsyah Satar
aruda Indonesia (GIAA) has further expanded its international routes. The state-owned airline will open three new international routes next year. The routes
are to Auckland (New Zealand), Brisbane (Australia), and London (UK). President Director of Garuda Indonesia Emirsyah Satar said that Auckland is a strategic route considering the number of passengers in New Zealand who travel abroad and vice versa is quite high. “Later aircraft from New Zealand do not have to transit to Singapore first. They will transit in Bali. This gives an additional value to us. Besides Aucland, Garuda Indonesia will open the routes of London-Jakarta and Brisbane-Jakarta. Both routes will also be a good route, “he said. Through the opening of Garuda’s new
routes, international visitors in particular will have easier way to travel to Auckland, London and Brisbane for the three cities are popular tourist destinations in the world. Currently, Garuda Indonesia has 94 new aircraft. Until 2015, Garuda will increase this number to 194 units, which consist of 150 units Garuda and 44 units Citilink aircraft. “Garuda Indonesia is also targeting growth in passengers every year. Last year, the number of passengers of Garuda Indonesia reached about 17.1 million passengers. As of September 2012, Emir said Garuda Indonesia passenger numbers have grown 20% from last year to 20.4 million passengers. (*)
Sumba Weaving to become UNESCO World Heritage
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eaving of Sumba will serve as the intangible cultural heritage of Indonesia, through the UN agency in charge of the organization of education, science and culture, UNESCO. Chairperson of the Citra Tenun Indonesia Okke Hatta Rajasa said Sumba weaving has been registered to the UNESCO since a few months ago, and is still undergoing the verification process. Weaving Sumba is chosen because it is a combination of three types of weaving techniques. “Three types of weaving techniques are flat technique, songket and
ikat. The flat technique usually creates striated cloth, while songket is commonly used by weaving technique from Palembang, Padang, and Sambas, “she said. Ikat technique is used in Balinese ndeg, Garut Flowers and Cual. While in the eastern region of Indonesia, there is special technique like Sumba weaving. “The collaboration of these three fabulous weaving techniques, resulting in motif that characterizes the people of Indonesia and identity that must be preserved,” she said. (*)
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n the near future the Ministry of Transportation noted that there will be four scheduled commercial airlines that will operate in 2013, namely, Batik Air, Nam Air, Kartika Airlines, and Jatayu. Djoko Murjatmodjo, Air Transport Director General of Civil Aviation Ministry of Transportation said the four candidates for the airline is conducting the process of filing a business license or permit to fly. “Of the four candidates, the one which already holds the aviation business license is Batik Air, a subsidiary of Lion Air. Batik Air is now in the process of acquiring the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), while the three other carriers, namely Nam Water, a subsidiary of Sriwijaya Air, Kartika Airlines, and Jatayu are still undertaking the SIUP process, “he said. He said the Jatayu and Kartika are actually not a new airline. However, their licenses have been expired because they have not operated for quite a long time. They now have to obtain a new permit because they intend to fly again. Of the four candidates, two of them are premium-class airline, namely, Batik Air and Nam Air. Lion Air is developing its line of business into premium class flight, from the current low-cost carriers (LCC). “Sriwijaya Air is also the same, Djoko continued, with Nam Air, Sriwijaya Air expanded its business line to the premium class aviation market, while Sriwijaya Air itself still serves medium class,” he said. Meanwhile, Herry Bakti S. Gumay, DGCA Ministry of Transportation said the emergence of new airlines indicate national aviation market continues to grow. “Just imagine, from Indonesia’s 240 million people, the number of air passengers in 2011 only 70 million, while the average person is expected to fly 2-3 times per year, that’s only about 30 percent of Indonesia’s population already enjoys air transport, “said Herry. According to him, the national aviation market continues to grow around 15% -20% per year, as the national economic growth at an average of 6% a year. In the first semester of 2012, the number of air passengers has grown 19% to 38 million people, both domestic and international passengers. He is targeting by the end of the year the number of air passengers doubling the number of semester one, which is about 76 million passengers. This figure is only moderate growth, not counting peak season of Christmas and New Year that usually has higher figure. “Growth in the number of passengers has already taken into account by the airlines by adding fleet and establish new subsidiary airline to serve different classes such as Lion Air with its Batik Air,” he explained. The additional seat capacity will not cause excess supply, because the growth of offers follows the growth in demand. “So the competition in national airline business is still competitive. Even if there are one or two airlines that reduce their flight routes, or close down, it is not because the market is already saturated, but as a strategy to maintain efficiency, “said Herry. (*)
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4 Cities Agree to Develop Tourism Cooperation
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photo by spc
Batik Air, Nam Air, Kartika Airlines and Jatayu Ready to Fly
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Bali
Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Sheraton announce opening of Bali Kuta Resort
photo by spc
– the all-day dining Feast® with its vibrant openkitchen, located alongside beachwalk patio overlooking the Kuta Beach, or indulge at Bene - a light-hearted Italian trattoria with oceanic setting, where guests can also relish mesmerizing views of the beautiful Bali Strait on the rooftop deck level. The Lounge offers a locally inspired cocktail menu, with open-air setting and Indian Ocean scenery. If relaxation is what you seek, Shine Spa for Sheraton is on hand to pamper and rejuvenate guests with signature treatments blending from the East to the West with local Balinese touches. With a total of over 1,600sqm all located on one level, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort offers 9 flexible event spaces - including a 700 square meters ballroom that is divisible and supported with an underground secure parking facility capable of hosting over 2,000 vehicles. Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort marks Starwood’s fifth hotel on the Island of Gods. Currently, Starwood manages The St. Regis Bali Resort, W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak, The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort, and The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali. By 2014, Starwood will debut three new hotels in Bali.
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the Indian Ocean or the resort’s signature social courtyard. The resort also features a signature two-story Oceanic view Presidential Suite with contemporary approach of Balinese interior and private sundeck lounge. There are three dining options to choose from
In celebration of its opening, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is offering ‘Experience Sheraton’ package. Starting from USD225++ per night, the package includes accommodation in a deluxe guestroom, breakfast for two at Feast®, oneway airport transfer from or to Bali International
PHM Hospitality Achievement on Indonesia Travel Tourism Award of 2012 / 2013 “INDONESIA LEADING LOCAL HOTEL CHAIN”
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oward end of year 2012, PHM Hospitality completed this year with one award achievement as INDONESIA LEADING HOTEL CHAIN for 2012/2013.
try. The ITTA event is considered as one of the prestigious events in Indonesia tourism as attended by senior executives, decision makers from major travel companies, operators and destinations. Mr. Kristian Kuntadi, Managing Director of PHM Hospitality says, “We are delighted to receive the award as recognition of our hard work in delivering innovative and high quality product and service with maximum values for hotel and resorts in Indonesia. We do look forward continuing to build PHM Hospitality as the Preferred Indonesian Hospitality Management Company.” PHM Hospitality has succeeded in managing the first two “happening” hotel brands, THE HAVEN Bali-Seminyak & THE 1O1 Bali-Legian, and just launching newly born brand, THE BnB, “The New Evolution of Urban Budget Hotel” opening soon at Kelapa Gading, Jakarta. *
HARRIS HOTELS Celebrates ITS 10TH Anniversary And Annual ‘HARRIS DAY’
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Sukamdani Gitosardjono
Batur’s Caldera officially declared as a National Geopark
photo by spc
photo by spc
The awards which been held by Indonesia Travel Tourism Award Foundation are designed to appreciate the outstanding Indonesian hotels, resorts, villas, serviced apartments, travel agents, tour operators, amusement parks, airlines, airports, tourism boards, and destinations, who fulfill the quality and hospitality experience expectation as well as being models for the emerging travel industry. The recipients of the awards should prove as leading brands in the industry and has demonstrated exemplary service towards the customers. The Judging process took 4 steps which consist of first screening by ITTA Foundation, online voting (25 %), assessment from appointed education institute (25 %) as well as Qualitative & Quantitative judging by Board of Advisor (50%). The Awards organizer received over 250 nominees to celebrate 42 category of award from Indonesia’s Travel / Tourism Indus-
photo by yudick
If You Go
heraton Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of the Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort on Kuta Beach in Bali, one of world’s most well known surf destinations. Set on a total area of 5.2 hectares, the hotel is an exclusive retreat with 203 guest rooms and suites, each with a private balcony offering uninterrupted views of
ARRIS Day’s celebration this year is marked by the 10th anniversary of HARRIS Hotels and the annual HARRIS Fun Bike Which was held on December 9th 2012 in 4 areas (Jakarta, Bandung, Bali and Batam. A string of events took place to celebrate the first decade of HARRIS Hotels in Indonesia including the launching of HARRIS Photo Book – 10 Tahun Fotografi Bersama HARRIS, Lucky draws in all HARRIS Hotels with first prize a trip to Paris and the fun-filled HARRIS Carnival in 4 areas where HARRIS Day is organized. When we first created HARRIS 10 years ago, it was very clear that we didn’t want HARRIS to be just another Hotel brand in the market. It’s a lifestyle with its mission to promote healthy lifestyle and photography,” said Marc Steinmeyer, President Direktor of TAUZIA Hotel Management. “We are proud to manage 11 HARRIS hotels at the moment and very excited to have 30 projects in the pipeline by end of 2015.”
Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS), daily resort credit of USD25 to indulge in various food and beverage offerings or spa treatments. Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) earns double Starpoints. The offer is valid until 30 June 2013. Rates are subject to 21% service charge and government tax. Terms and conditions apply. For more information and reservation about Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, please visit www.sheraton.com/balikuta. (totaltravel).
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inister of Tourism and Creative Economy Mari Pangestu welcomed the success of the Batur Caldera National Geopark that has been officially accepted as a member of the Global Geopark Network (GGN) by UNESCO. This success makes Indonesia a registered member to 89 of 90 GGN spread across 27 countries. GGN membership was given at the closing ceremony of the 11th European Geopark Conference in Arouca, Portugal, on 20 September 2012. “This membership has significance for to be able to become the member of GGN takes a long process and must go through a strict requirement. We have gone through many processes since 2008 finally this year Indonesia successfully registered Batur Caldera National Geopark to be one of the 90 GGN, “said Mari Pangestu in Bangli, Bali. The success of Batur Caldera Geopark to become part of Global Geopark Network is expected to be an example and encouragement to other geopark in Indonesia to join GGN. Moreover, Mari Pangestu added that the Batur Caldera as a Global Geopark is very meaningful to the development of tourism in Indonesia and is mainly associated with the government’s strategy to develop 16 KSPN (National Tourism Strategic Areas) and special interest tourism to boost the number and quality of tourists visiting Indonesia. “Batur Geopark, which is located in Kintamani also gives additional value considering that Kintamani - Lake Batur and its surrounding have been set as one of the KSPN by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. In addition to setting 16 KSPN, the Ministry also develops seven special interest tourisms to not only increase the number of tourists, but the most important is to increase the quality. Nature tourism and ecotourism is one of the seven special interests, “said Mari Pangestu. Geopark or Global Park is one of the sustainable development concepts and ultimately selected by Indonesia as a model for the development of natural resources holistically. The three main elements of natural resources, namely, geological, biological and cultural are packed as a whole and integrated in the concept of geopark. The objective of geopark development is based on three main targets, namely, conservation, education and the growing value of the local economy through the utilization of tourism. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
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Bintang Kuta Hotel is Now Open R
rooms. We are a Family friendly hotel which provides spacious accommodations. The rooms feature a queen sized bed and a twin bed which are comfortable and convenient for your entire family. Suites room: Bintang Kuta Hotel Bali has 4 Suite Rooms. Featuring a room with a queen sized bed with a luxurious living room as well as full entertainment system to create unforgettable memories for you and your family. Room Facilities: 42” LED TV´s, International Satellite TV channel, Wi fi internet access, Direct dial telephone, Tea/Coffee maker, Fridge, Hairdryer, Safety Box, AC, Nonsmoking room, Rollaway beds available and Baby Cots. On the same occasion also launched Ballroom Ramada Bintang Bali, which has been renovated. According to Made Budiman, the renovation of the ballroom is expected to enliven Ramada Bintang Bali through the MICE events. Capacity the ballroom are 200 pax for classroom, 250 pax for round table and 365 pax for theatre style.
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photo by igo
amada Bintang Bali group is launching its latest product, Bintang Kuta Hotel on Jl. Kartika Plaza, Kuta (Bali). The opening was attended by the owner, Ale Sugiarto, and Joop Ave, former Minister of Tourism, Post and Telecommunication. Bintang Kuta Hotel is located exactly in front of Ramada Bintang Bali. According to Made Budiman, GM of Bintang Kuta Hotel, the hotel is a brand new four-star hotel in Kuta. It is a luxury hotel where modern style meets minimalist design. You will find the leisure of staying in Bintang Kuta Hotel. Bintang Kuta Hotel is a 4 star rated
hotel located in the prime location of Jalan Kartika Plaza.It has a direct access to the well-known South Kuta Beach, shopping centre and entertainment district. We will help you creating a memorable experience as you enjoy your holiday. Bintang Kuta Hotel Bali has 168 rooms which divided into 3 room types, namely: DELUXE ROOMS, FAMILY ROOMS and SUITES ROOMS. Deluxe rooms: Enjoy the premier location of Kuta Bali accompanied by our contemporary meets minimalist design of Deluxe Rooms. The rooms feature a queen bed with the option of a rollaway bed. Room Facilities: 42” LED TV´s, International Satellite TV channel, Wi fi internet access, Direct dial telephone, Tea/Coffee maker, Fridge, Hairdryer, Safety Box, AC, Non-smoking room, Rollaway beds available and Baby Cots. Family rooms: Never leave your family behind when you come to Bali. Bintang Kuta Hotel Bali proudly welcomes your family to stay at our Family
Jop Ave and Ale Sugiarto
Miss Scuba International 2012 - Bali, Indonesia the final round. These 5 contestants had to face the question & answer (Q&A) section of the competition as well as perform a talent show for the audience. The 5 contestants that made it to the final round were Ms Jaime Piyada Monmaneerat from Thailand, Ms Yovita Ayu Liwanuru from Indonesia, Ms Ashlee Smith from the USA, Ms Yvonne Tan from Singapore and Ms Janicel Lubina from the Philippines. Our honorable judges were Ms Sarah Lewis from Manta Trust, which is the official conservation partner of our pageant. Other judges were Ms Monika Weber our kind sponsor of the stunning kebaya gowns worn by our contestants; Ms Erilene Tumali, a former Mrs Universe Philippines; Mr William Tong, Board of Directors of NAUI Worldwide; Mr John Seddon, Export Sales manager for Scubapro Asia Pacific; Datuk Vincent Pung, the Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Credit Corporation and Mr Jeff Anderson, the South Asia CEO of Ripcurl.
photo by spc
Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas Care For Lampung
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uesday, 20th November 2012, Management and Staff of Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas gave donation to the victims of riot in Bali Nuraga – South Lampung as much as Rp. 12.435.000. The donation was given by PRM Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas, Mina, accompanied by Personnel Manager – I Gusti Agung Gangga and Assistant Executive Housekeeper – Eko Yuniarta at Bali Post Building at Jl. Kepundung 67A, Denpasar. The donation is expected to be useful and similar incident will not happen again in the future.
Finally the title of Miss International 2012 was seized by Ms Jaime Piyada Monmaneerat from Thailand! The 1st runner-up was Ms Yovita Ayu Liwanuru from Indonesia and the 2nd runner-up was Ms Ashlee Smith from the USA. The Miss Scuba International pageant is founded and presided by Mr Robert Lo Ming Hoe who is also the proprietor of the Sipadan-Mabul Resort (SMART) and Mabul Water Bungalows. Mr Robert Lo is a strong believer in sustainable development within the realms of our marine environment. He hopes that by sharing the beauty and wonders of the underwater world via women who are beautiful, it will enable more people to understand how fragile our oceans are and how much more we all need to play in our individual little roles to make a big difference to protecting it. We thank our kind co-organizer, PT Exhibition Network Indonesia(Xnet), as well as all associ-
ates and sponsors for their tremendous support in making this pageant an extraordinary success! (http://www.missscubaindonesia.com)
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iss Scuba International 2012 Finals stage competition was held on 30 November 2012 at the Sanur Paradise Hotel in Bali, Indonesia. This much anticipated event was attended by various dignitaries including the Ministry of Tourism of Bali. Coming from 10 different countries ranging all the way from the Americas to Europe, contestants were initially awarded 5 Special Awards, based on part judging held during the quarantine period at the Mimpi Menjangan Resort. Miss Marine Conservation was won by Ms Jaime Piyada Monmaneerat from Thailand, Miss Best Diver was won by Ms Ashlee Smith from the USA, Miss Best Dive Gear was won by Ms Yovita Ayu Liwanuru from Indonesia, Miss Photogenic was won by Ms Yvonne Tan from Singapore, while Miss Best Talent was won by Ms Madeleine Lok from Malaysia. Seve n judges then had the difficult task of selecting only the top 5 contestants to proceed to
Bali Hotel Industry targeting Security Audit Completion in 2012
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ali hospitality industry is targeting security management system audits for 25 five-star hotels providing service for the APEC summit held in Nusa Dua to be completed by the end of 2012. Executive Director of PHRI Bali, Ida Bagus Purwa Sidemen said that the security management system audits are planned for the hotel where the state guests stay in. The audit is targeted to be completed by the end of 2012. Most of the hotels audited are located in Nusa Dua and Jimbaran Bali. “For accommodation located in the Nusa Dua area, he said, are mostly located in the areas managed by the state-owned enterprises (SOEs) Bali Tourism Development Corporation. There are 14 audited hotels located in Nusa Dua and the rest are in Jimbaran, “he said. He further said that the audit aims to provide convenience to tourists or visitors stay in the hotels. A number of hotels that will be audited are related more to domestic and foreign tourists and MICE agendas. Through the improvement of the security system, is expected to provide comfort and security for tourists during their vacation or business trip in Bali.
“Enhancement on the supervision of the security system, he added, is focused in order to fulfill the requirements to get the certification. Later, the accommodation providers that have passed the audit will get security management system certificate from the Indonesia National Police (POLRI). Thus, the current certificate, which is the certificate of security and comfort, will be replaced, “he said. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Bali Tjokorda Oka Artha Sukawati Ardhana said that the system repairment has been included in the investment budget by the owners of capital. Ideally, a new hotel or restaurant should obtain three licenses at once, including the operational and security license. However PHRI has not known yet the amount of budget allocated for security system by each hotel. “Security system audit also serves as a pilot project for the implementation of safety management systems on the hotel and restaurant related to the regulation of the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy,” he said. Previously, PT Sucofindo Persero has con-
ducted audits for 111 starred hotels in Bali considering the need for enhanced security system according to international standards and safety guarantee for tourists. Director of Operations II Sucofindo Ganis Ramadhani said the provision of security standards, especially in terms of equipment and security forces must be increased. Although many have implemented security standards, but still there are many hospitality employers who have not implemented international standard security system. Sucofindo as a state-owned enterprise is designated by the Indonesian National Police to certify and audit the security system at a number of hotels in Bali. For now, they are using an international standard system as a reference given that crime can occur at any time with a variety of motives. For the record, currently there are 98 fivestar hotels with 16,360 rooms, 642 units of budget hotels with 19,248 rooms, 647 cottage with 2870 rooms and 10 units of Condotel with 2328 rooms. Whereas in 2011, there were 98 five-star hotels with 16,360 rooms, 596 budget hotels with 19,248, 599 cottages with 2696 rooms and 15 condotel units with 1793 rooms. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 5, 2012
PT. Telkom Indonesia To Launch Speedy Prepaid Instant Card (SPIN)
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T. Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk (Telkom) continues Internet penetration to accelerate economic growth in Indonesia in accordance with the commitment to realize the Master Plan for the Acceleration and Expansion of Indonesian Economic development (MP3EI) The launching of SPIN card was held on December 12 at the Conrad Hotel Bali by the Director of Telkom, Arief Yahya. Bali has been chosen considering that the island is the window of the world, so when Bali has become Island Digital Access the world will recognize Indonesia as Indonesia Digital Access. Indonesia Digital Network (abbreviated IDN) that will be the focus of the Telkom program until 2015 is boosted its realization with the preparation of the broadband infrastructure. In 2013 Telkom will add 15 million homepass and 25 million homepass will be added in 2017. To provide ease and convenience access to the users, Telkom is preparing 2 Million Wifi.id that is planned to be completed in 2012, and 3 millions wifi.id are targeted to be completed in 2013. Thus, Telkom hopes to build an ecosystem of broadband in the country that can be used by the community to accelerate economic growth. The community’s life style in interacting with the Internet is facilitated by Telkom by launching a Speedy prepaid card, to complete the Speedy subscription package that has been presented before. Thus, people will more easily choose which one suits their needs and lifestyle. At the initial launch, Telkom has set not less than 29 thousand cards in Bali area. With this card, customers in Bali can access broadband internet through regular Speedy network at home or office, and at more than 3 thousand WiFi spots in many public areas in Bali. Nationally, in 2013, Telkom will release 20 million SPIN Cards. And this is of course coupled with accelerating the deployment of 2 million wifi. id access. Broadband Era has become a trend and business focus of all operators in the world, and also occurred in Indonesia. Trend of Broadband Access does not start suddenly but with a mature process and readiness. Met after a road visit to several implementation locations of Speedy Instant Card, Director of Telkom Arief Yahya said “Only operators who
have plans that will be able to survive and gain the benefits in this era. And Telkom has prepared 100% to serve all customers who need broadband access.” The process of providing a reliable broadband access by Telkom began with the deployment of Fiber Optics from Sabang to Merauke and now fiber optic that has entered houses as the most stable broadband networks at high speed is SPEEDY. “We prepare all not only as a business target but rather as Telkom responsibility to grow the economy in this country through broadband access,” said Arief again. Shortly before it launched, Telkom carried out the access reliability test by doing road visit of Speedy Instant at some meeting points. Among them are Renon Outlet (where customers can purchase SPIN Card), Centro Mall as one of the
public areas equipped with wifi.id, Kuta resident which is an example of a residential area with full support of Broadband Ready, and Telkom Plasa Jimbaran where the customer can get more information about SPIN, which a prepaid service, so that customers are not charged with subscription fee. In a meeting with media crews attended by the Director of Consumer Telkom, Sukardi Silalahi, “Internet access has now become everyone’s needs, not just businesses, but also the school children. SPIN has different specifications to regular Speedy, especially in terms of the rates that can be tailored to customer needs. With the widespread wifi spots are aggressively built Telkom Speedy Instant value can be felt more by customers. SPIN is a Speedy service with a “normally open” connection for customers who join the
“Broadband Ready” program. Customers can use Speedy service at any time as needed or Pay As You Use (PAYU) with no monthly subscription fee. Previously, Telkom perform Speedy installation the network prior to installation of the modem on the customer before it is ready to use for internet connection. From the data, until the third quarter of 2012, there is a significant increase in the number of customers of broadband services. In that period, the number of broadband subscribers increased by 42.5 percent over the same period last year. Telkom as the largest telecommunication company in Indonesia, until the third quarter of 2012 has 8.6 million fixed-line subscribers, 15.9 million broadband subscribers and 121 million mobile subscribers. This of course is an opportunity for Telkom to drive multimillion progress for Indonesia in various fields through SPIN. SPIN: Easy, Economical & Beneficial It is very easy to use SPIN. After the officer activated SPIN, customers can use the service via SPIN portal that will appear automatically, and then select the desired package including choosing the type of payment (i.e. vouchers, debited from Flexi / GSM credit, charged to PSTN and Debit / Credit Card. SPIN package available includes free Internet access during the first month since it is activated and free content UseeTV for the first three months. Speedy prepaid package will be delivered in accordance to the qualification of customer network with the standard service of 512 kbps package. The physical voucher denominations are Rp 10,000, Rp 20,000 and Rp 50,000. “Telkom will always give the best for the nation. We must not be inferior to other nations in terms of the creative industries. We cannot possibly compete with China or other countries in terms of manufacturing. Our young generation should move forward in the creative industries. I hope one day our children could rule the world with their creative ideas,” said Managing Director of Telkom, Arief Yahya at the end of his speech. For that Telkom will always give the best for the community. For students we try to make the concept cheap to students only with Rp 1000 using national student identification numbers. * Christovao *
Vol. VII No. 8, 2012
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FAVEHOTEL SEMINYAK CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING
i Bal
Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
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Accor revolutionizes ibis Hotel throughout Indonesia
photo by spc
Research 2012 to know the views of Asian business and leisure travelers about economy hotel. This survey interviewed more than 800 respondents from eight Asian countries, including 111 respondents from Indonesia. The survey revealed that travelers prefer Indonesia international economy hotel brand, where 68 percent of respondents indicated that the percentage is higher that the regional average as high as 59 percent. Respondents from Indonesia prefer economy hotels as a place to stay during the holidays (41%), than for business purposes (33. Related to facilities and hotel services, Indonesian travelers consider that friendly service is the most important part of the economy hotels service, with 76% of respondents said they chose a hotel by considering whether they will get friendly service or not, followed by the consideration that The hotel has a good bathroom facilities (71%) serves a complimentary breakfast (62%), have access to WI-FI (57%) and a comfortable bed (49%). As a country where its travelers are very careful in terms of money spent, it is not surprising that the major determinants of the selection of hotels for Indonesian travelers is the price, which 53 percent of Indonesia travelers prefer economy hotel based on its competitive price. The good news is that although Indonesia trav-
A
sia Economy Hotels Research 2012 reveals that the majority of tourists in Indonesia prefer international economy-hotel brand than the local brand, choose hotels based on room rate and book rooms online. Accor, the biggest international hotel operator in Asia Pacific, is transforming its economy-hotels codes by announcing the reposition of Ibis brand, namely, ibis Styles (all seasons) throughout Indonesia. The transformation includes reviewing economy hotel codes in depth, renewing more than 100,000 beds, honing an all new concept for its public areas, and briskly installing the new ibis, ibis Styles and ibis budget banners. The initiative of hotel revitalization was announced together with the result of Asia Economy Hotels Research 2012, which reveals that 68% of Indonesian tourists prefer international economy-hotel brand than the local brand. The first stage of the revitalization program includes the installation of the new banners for the three brands of ibis. It is expected that by the end of 2012, 60% of ibis hotel throughout Indonesia has used the new banner and will be entirely completed by the end of 2013. A new portal has been presented – www.ibis.com – that serves as the gateway to access ibis hotels, as well as an innovative Facebook campaign to encourage users to know the brands of ibis, in which each has its own characteristics. In addition, a comprehensive promotional offer is held to attract guests to enjoy staying in the new hotels of ibis. Accor also presents exclusive bedding concept and new interior design in the lobby and reception areas. “The revitalization of ibis brands is very strategic for Accor, especially in Indonesia where economy hotels are a segment with the fastest growth in hospitality industry,” said Adi Satria, Regional Director, Sales, Marketing & Distribution Accor Malaysia-IndonesiaSingapore. “Therefore, economy segment is the main point of Accor’s development in Indonesia. Currently, we have 19 ibis hotels – ibis Styles (formerly all seasons) and Formule 1 (will be transformed into ibis budget) – in nine cities across Indonesia. Within the next three years, we are going to open at least 28 ibis hotels, which include nine ibis, nine ibis Styles and eleven ibis budget throughout Indonesia,” Adi said. Related to the revitalization program, Accor examines every detail of its economy hotel product, including the bedding and interior. Accor also seeks information and advice from the guests to ensure that the new products meet the guests’ demand. Recently Accor group also announced the survey results of Asia Economy Hotels
Unique Comfort with different styles...... Stay at the ibis Syles in Indonesia and enjoy breakfast and free internet, 3x points Le Club Accorhotels & WIN The chance to stay free of charge for staying one night of a thousand nights offered by ibis family brand with a breakfast and a dinner voucher worth Rp 50,000.
Comfort at competitive price....... Stay at ibis hotels throughout Indonesia and enjoy a free breakfast and free internet access, 3x points Le Club Accorhotels & WIN The chance to stay free of charge for one night of the 1000 nights offered by ibis family brand with a breakfast and a dinner voucher worth Rp , 50 000.
elers found international economy hotel brand is more expensive (89%) than the local hotels, they continued to believe that international brands have more professional staff (92%), better service and fcailities (86%) and good reputation (85%). The elements of these services can be defined by their willingness to pay higher prices about 24 percent to stay in the international economy brand hotel than local brands. “Asia Economy Hotels Research 2012 was instrumental in helping us socializing ibis family brand for the Indonesian market,” added Adi Satria. “For example, we learned that most tourists prefer the international than local brand and are willing to pay almost 25 percent higher to stay at an international economy hotel. But instead, they expect more professional services and amenities at our hotels, so we must continue to strive to deliver the best service consistently, “said Adi. The survey also found that more than half of Indonesian tourists reserved hotel online either through the hotel website (27%) or through a travel agent online (73%). This trend is similar to the trend in other countries in Asia which confirms that access to online reservations continues to play an important role.
photo by spc
photo by spc
Stay at the ibis budget hotels throughout Indonesia and win the chance to stay free for one night of 1000 nights offered by ibis family brand and a dinner voucher worth Rp, 50,000 (only applicable in ibis and ibis Styles).
Best Western to Hold Cupcakes Creation Contest
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hree big properties of BEST WESTERN in Bali, namely: BEST WESTERN Resort Kuta, BEST WESTERN Kuta Villa, and BEST WESTERN Kuta Beach rejoined to hold an event titled “ Cupcakes Creation Contest “. The event has the theme of BEST WESTERN For Studen and was attended by children from Soverdi Primary School. A total of around 40 students Grade 5 and 6 were selected to be participants in the contest. In addition to introducing the world of hospitality from an early age to children, this event also aims to
hone children’s creativity to be more developed. The event was held on Saturday, December 1st, 2012. It was begun with the showing room in BEST WESTERN Kuta Villa, later at the BEST WESTERN Resort Kuta and ended with lunch at the Ambrosia Restaurant. The students looked very happy and excited. There are three winners and each gets stationery gift and voucher from BEST WESTERN Resort Kuta, BEST WESTERN Kuta Villa and BEST WESTERN Kuta Beach.
Bali Hotels Association Launched a Scholarship Paradigm Book
B
ali Hotels Association’s Scholarship Program—which provides scholarships to 16 students every year to attend the county’s largest tourism institute—celebrated its 10th birthday in October. To mark the occasion, the association has launched a book entitled The First Decade of BHA Scholarship Program 2002-2012. This book is a milestone for the program, and BHA hopes it will also encourage and motivate other sustainable initiatives. It will be distributed to various institutions such as the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and Bali-based embassies. It is also available for purchase at Rp 200,000 by companies or organizations that would
like to learn about and implement similar schemes in their CSR programs. “As hotel managers, this island has given a lot to us,” said Jean-Charles Le Coz, BHA chairman. “So our motivation it is not only giving back to the community, but also to support the development of local talent to work with us in the hospitality industry.” The book was officially launched by Drs. I Nyoman Wardawan, representating the Bali Tourism Authority Office, accompanied by a representative of the Bali Regional Police Office, at Bali Hyatt, Sanur beach. BHA would also like to thank the sponsors of the book and its launch: Bali Hyatt, Conrad Bali, 101 Legian Hotel, TUV Rheinland, Bali Jet Set Dive & Marine Sports, Schneider Elec-
tric, Lotus Food Services, and PT. Golden Bird Bali.
photo by spc
H
ARRIS Resort Kuta Beach proudly announces the second consecutive Emerald Medal of Tri Hita Karana (THK) Awards which was held at Bali Art Centre, Denpasar on 07 December 2012. Tri Hita Karana is a Balinese Hindu philosophy that represents the harmonization of the relationship between humans and God (parahyangan), human and human (pawongan), and human and environment (palemahan) into an integral unity. These three sources create harmony and balance to peaceful life of happiness. There are four categories of the Awards: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Emerald, and Platinum. This award is indeed a great privilege for the Resort to show the capability of maintaining consistency the harmony of the Resort towards environment, spiritual life, and human relations. “We are committed to support the sustainable Tri Hita Karana principles in daily operation to preserve the local values, protect the environment, and contribute to the local community.” said Mrs. Virginie Tutin Sandstrom, the General Manager of HARRIS Resort Kuta Beach.
To welcome the revitalization program, ibis family brand gives special program by offering free breakfast, internet, point Le Club Accorhotels, food and beverage voucher worth Rp 50,000 and a chance to win a free stay in the ibis family brands. This offer is valid for bookings for the period from 1 November 2012 to 31 January 2013 with the period of stay ranging from 5 November 2012 to 31 January 2013.
Comfort with affordable price.......
photo by spc
photo by spc
The Second Emerald Medal of Tri Hita Karana Award 2012
Unique Comfort at Competitive Price
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Island Exp lore r
Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
wibowo photo by tri
Globalizing Sasando as Flores Icon
D
eputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sapta Nirwandar hopes that Sasando could become an icon of tourism in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Therefore, it requires promotion nationally and internationally and one of them is through Sasando Music Festival held in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara recently. The concert involved national musicians such as Ita Purnama Sari, Putri Ayu and Dwiki Darmawan. “Sasando is a very unique instrument for it is made from palm leaves that can only be found in the District of Rote Ndao. I bet that there’s no Sasando other than in NTT, “said Nirwandar. He further said that Sasando instrument is made from the leaves of palm trees that are commonly found in Rote Ndao. Palm trees were not planted, but grew naturally. This means that those trees are a gift that must be maintained. “Besides Sasando, NTT still has a lot of attractions that should be promoted such as Kelimutu that he regards as a world class tourist location. Other attractions include Nembrala Beach, Mbay Marine Park, Komodo, Bena village and Kupang, “he said. He added that the hot weather of Kupang can be interesting attraction for tourists from countries, which only have two-month summer every year. These tourist potentials needs to be organized and promoted well, so they can be well known nationally and internationally.
A Festive Concert Held in the El Tari building, Kupang, the Sasando music concert led by Dwiki Dharmawan with his World Peace Emsemble combined with 100 Sasando musicians presented amazing performance. The 100 Sasando musicians also consisted of seven Sasando maestros, namely, Edon Sasando, John Tedens, Her-
man Landong Esa Niti Sasando, David Meshach, Yeremias Pah and Hendrik Pah. They performed in their traditional clothes from NTT, which consists of pepak and Ti’ilangga hat and sash or typical woven Tais from Timor. This musical performance was initiated by the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) and provincial government of NTT. The theme is “Sasando in Concert; From Ancient to Future.” The concert began at 7.30pm on Tuesday (13/11) in the Main Hall of El-Tari Building, Kupang, NTT. The opening concert presented 100 Sasando musicians playing traditional song of Rote Ndao. Although the 100 artists that performed were divided into two, due to the limited stage space, they remain instantly seized the attention of the audience. This could be seen when they accompany the traditional dance of Rote, Tio Renda. Although it has repetitive dance movements, the music produced by 50 Sasando musicians has successfully amazed the audiences. The audiences were getting amazed by the next performances by Vocalesta Kmanek Choir led by Elias Joka, Laboratorium Tari Taman Budaya Studio, Putri Ayu, Ivan Nestorman, Ita Purnamasari, Ingrid Wakano, under the command of Dwiki Dharmawan World Peace Emsemble began alternately perform on stage, while involving Sasando as the main part of the show. Performed harmoniously with other musical instruments, Sasando music concert has attracted the attention of foreign tourists who watched the show. When Putri Ayu (Indonesia Seeking Talent runner-up 2010) sang “Tanah Airku” and a young singer from Kupang, Ingrid Wakano sang “Batu Matia”, and accompanied by Sasando maestro Yeremias Pah, David Meshach, and Endy Pah with 50 Sasando musicians, resulting in a different composition, because there is a strong color of Sasando there.
Unique and different nuance was also occurred when Yopie played the song entitled “Tebe O Nana”. Ivan Nestorman, Flores original musicians was the one who actually managed to cheer the audiences up. He played traditional song from West Manggarai titled “Benggong” cheerfully and managed to make the audience singing, clapping and dancing together. Even some foreign audiences who don’t know the meaning of the song also joined in this festivity. The rhythm of the show somewhat decreased when Ita Purnamasi brought her hit singles in the late ‘90s called “Cintaku Padamu” (My love for you) before proceeding with original songs from Timor titled “Bolelebo” which means “For Us All”. After that Putri Ayu was back on stage singing “Kakorlalong” that means victory. As a stringed instrument of Rote Ndao, Sasando, in Rote language, derived from sasandu diction which means instrument that vibrates or beeps. This instrument is believed to begin to use by the community of Rote since the 7th century. Sasando is more unique that other stringed instruments such as guitar for Sasando is classified based on the number of strings. There are engkel Sasando (with 28 strings), double sasando (56 strings, or 84 strings) gong sasando or haik sasando, and violin sasando, also electric sasando. Therefore it is not easy to play this instrument for it requires not only the sharpness of feelings to catch the tones, but at the same time creating a new voice, with a depth of a particular technique. The complexity in playing the instrument is believed to be the reason why young people are reluctant to play it. The concert was ended with the performances of Putri Ayu who sand “Mayfaliyye” and followed by Ivan with the song titled “Mogi”. The concert was amazing and has successfully entertained the audiences. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
photo by tri wibowo photo by tri wibowo
V
ice President of the Republic of Indonesia Boediono was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Education and Cultural Affairs Cultural Wiendu Nuryanti officially opening the Wayang Summit 2012 some time ago. The opening was marked by plugging Gunungan Wayang at the main stage of Wayang Summit 2012 in Silang Monas, Jakarta. Wayang Summit 2012 is a multi-event that brings together important figures, scholars and artists, puppeteer and puppet show from the archipelago and abroad. The show lasted for two days; Saturday-Sunday, 24-25 November 2012, and the agenda included Puppet Workshop, Puppet Exhibition and Puppet Character Coloring Contest for children. Puppet show on 5 stages as the main program presented National and Global Puppet was free of charge and opened to public. Vice President Boediono said that the government gives the highest appreciation to the puppet artists from all over the archipelago and abroad who have attended the Wayang Summit 2012 and performed their best works. “Wayang have been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity since 2003 and this has established our steps together to make puppets as one of the references in cultural development whether
in the form of reference to guide ethics, morals and character of the nation, and more broadly to the development of the creative economy in the context of bringing prosperity to the society, “said Boediono. Deputy Minister of Education and Cultural Wiendu Nuryanti underlined, “Wayang Summit 2012 with the theme” Establishing World Cultural Cooperation through Wayang “was initiated by Indonesia to achieve a common vision and strategy in preserving the world’s cultural heritage as a means to strengthen the identity and the vision of cooperation between countries in the world.” In the opening of Wayang Summit 2012, Boediono and Wiendu Nuryanti also symbolically presented the award to three cultural caretak-
ers who represented three regions in Indonesia, namely, western, middle and eastern Indonesia. This moment also officially marked release of the 100 people serve as non civil servants cultural counselor who be deployed throughout Indonesia. On the same occasion, Vice President together with Deputy Minister of Education and Culture also launched the program “Let’s Back in School,” , which is a program that brings back about 2316 school children of primary and secondary schools to their school in the area of Polewali Mandar, West Sulawesi. Awards are also given to 4 puppet observes, namely H. Ekotjipto, SH., (PEPADI Chairman), Amb. Drs. Suparmin Sunjoyo (Chairperson of SENAWANGI), Drs. H. Solichin (Chairman of
the SENAWANGI Board of Ethics) and Elsabeth Proust from Total E&P Indonesia. Awards are also given in the form of puppet to puppeteer representatives, namely; Fedelis Kithome of Kenya, Tang Dayu from China, Ki Wawan Ajen and Ki Dalang Sukarlana. Wayang Summit 2012 featured puppets from different countries such as from the United States, Iran, China and Kenya. Meanwhile performances of local puppeteers included Wayang Beber Pacitan by Tri Ganjar Wicaksono, young puppeteer Tri Atmodjo, Palembang Shadow Puppet by Ki Sukartana, Wayang Golek Ajen by Ki Wawan Ajen, Palembang Shadow Puppet by Kgs. Wirawan Rusdi, Wayang Suket by Slamet Gundono and Purwa Solo Shadow Puppet by Ki Manteb Sudarsono that played the story of Bima Bangkit. Wayang Summit 2012 also held a Workshop that brings the figures, puppet artists and experts from Canada, Croatia, France, India, Iran, China, and Indonesia. Some of the organizations involved in the program held on Saturday, November 24, 2012 were UNIMA (Union Internationale de la Marionnatte - International), Puppet Association, PEPADI (Association of Indonesian puppetry) and SENA WANGI (National Secretariat of Indonesian Puppets) and APA (ASEAN Puppetry).(*)
Lombok-Sumbawa Tourism Travel Fair 2012
photo by tri wibowo
photo by tri wibowo
Puppet Summit 2012 at Monas
T
here is no doubt that tourist attractions in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) have attracted tourists from different countries. Having managed to attract 1 million tourists in 2012, now NTB increases the target to 2 million tourists in 2015. During the year 2012, NTB, Lombok and Sumbawa in particular is targeting 1 million tourists, in accordance to the target of Visit Lombok Sumbawa 2012 (VLS). The target was exceeded. “We are targeting the end of this year could reach 1 million tourists. But recently the second week in November, the target has been reached, “said the Head of Tourism and Culture of West Nusa Tenggara, Lalu Gita Aryadi in the opening of Lombok-Sumbawa Tourism Travel Fair 2012 in Kasablanka City Mall, Jakarta recently. Gita Aryadi added, in 2015 NTB is ready to set the target of 2 million tourists. To support this goal, Visit Lombok Sumbawa has prepared a variety of promotions and events that could attract
the attention of tourists, both domestic and foreign tourists. In 2013, there will be many events with a national and international scale held in Lombok-Sumbawa. The events that are currently being prepared include the celebration of two-century eruption of Mount Tambora. NTB has many outstanding tourism potentials. There are 3 Gili that are very famous, beautiful beaches, Mount Rinjani, culinary, cultural and other potentials. Its natural beauty is not less beautiful than Bali! Achyaruddin as Director of Special Interest of Convention, Incentive and Event, Directorate General of Tourism Destination Development and Culture Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy also expressed his admiration towards Lombok, especially its underwater potentials. “I like marine tourism very much. So I’m sure marine tourism in NTB will improve, “said Achyaruddin. Chairman of BPPNTB, Awanadhi Aswinabawa said that Lom-
bok-Sumbawa Tourism Travel Fair 2012, deliberately held in Jakarta as an origin destination, tourists from Jakarta can get a complete and interesting information about the West Nusa Tenggara, especially Lombok and Sumbawa. This event also aims to encourage tourists come to these two regions. “All special things from Lombok can be seen in this event, which include music, dance, sculpture, gendang bele, songket (woven cloths), and others, “said Awanadhi. Not only the quality of its tourism and culture that needs to be improved, facilities and destination promotion and NTB activities are also taken into concern. This problem can be solved by establishing cooperation with other institutions working in the field of tourism, such as the Association of Indonesian Hotels and Restaurants (PHRI), Association of the Indonesia Tours and Travel (ASITA), Indonesia Congress and Convention Association (INCCA), as well as the craftsmen and artists of NTB. (*)
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Gerakan Indonesia Berdendang to Begin
25th, 2012. “The movement is expected to make Indonesian music sing in Indonesia and worldwide. This movement is a commitment of all elements of the Indonesian music industry, including the government and the local government who together tirelessly foster, encourage, and promote the music of Indonesia to become a king in its own country, is recognized by the people of Indonesia and the world, and becomes the power of the creative industries that contributed to the growth of Indonesia’s economy, “said Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Mari Pangestu. Mari Pangestu added that a movement must
be followed by a variety of real and sustainable programs and should be preceded by an educational program (capacity building) that continuously performed by players in music industry and those who would plunge into the world of music so that it will increase the quality and understanding about music. Thus, it is expected that more talented singers or musicians as well as quality music works will be born in Indonesia. Music observer Richard Buntario from Broadcast Design Indonesia Entertainment on the same occasion suggested that in terms of quality, Indonesian music is quite competitive, even many Indonesian singers or musicians have
photo by tri wibowo
T
he attempt to awaken and restore the glory of Indonesian music has become a challenge that must be answered. Through the spirit of togetherness and determination by all elements of the Indonesian music industry, including the government and the community, the music of Indonesia is expected not only to be the host in its own country but also will able to be taken into account in the international music world. For that reason, the First Lady Ani Yudhoyono launched Gerakan Indonesia Berdendang (Indonesia Singing Movement) in line with Indonesia Creative Products Week (PPKI) on November
photo by tri wibowo
photo by tri wibowo
photo by tri wibowo
gained success abroad. However, the lack of promotion resulted in a decreased interest and appreciation towards the music of Indonesia. Appreciation and recognition of Indonesian music from the public will lead to the birth of creativepreneurs in the field of music that will drive the economy of Indonesia. “Indonesia has so many musical talents and hidden potentials. However, due to the lack of opportunity to perform their ability causes their skills remain untouched, “said Richard. Chairman of PAPPRI (Indonesia Association of Singers, Song Writers and Music Recordings), Tantowi Yahya, also expressed PAPPRI’s commitment to develop Indonesian music including overcoming Copyright infringement issues, focusing on the importance of capacity building through education and training, and providing space for expression. (*)
Cirebon’s Royal Chariot to Amaze the audiences
T
due to the condition of the chariot. It is then stored in the Museum of Chariot, which is located beside the building of Taman Dewandaru Kasepuhan Cirebon palace. Since then this chariot is really no longer allowed out for any occasion. It is still cleaned every month Shura or Muharam. The replica of the chariot was displayed in the royal chariot exhibition in Cirebon few years ago as well as in the parade of KSKN 2012. This royal chariot does not use horses instead it is pushed by seven royal soldiers wearing black clothes. King’s children who are still in teen aged dressed in white sitting in the chariot with their companions sitting in front of them in green clothes. Behind them, a guard was standing while holding a royal umbrella. Although it was raining, the chariot has drawn the attention of the audiences including photographers who took many pictures of it from different angles. Another royal chariot which also attracted the attention of hundreds of people in the crowd that afternoon was the Kencana Paksi Naga Liman that belongs to Cirebon Kanoman Palace. The chariot was made in 1608 based on Javanese figures of 1530 on the body of the chariot which is the Caka year. The chariot used to be used by the King of Kanoman Palace to attend royal ceremonies and also for the wedding procession of the royal family. But since 1930, it was no longer in use and stored in the museum of Kanoman Palace.(*)
with other nations regardless of their differences in tribe, race, or religion. Sculptures carved on the chariot was also characterizes the typical culture of the three friendly countries. Wadasan and megamendung sculptures are typical motives from Cirebon and the red and green colors used represent the characteristic of China. Three cultures namely Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam became one and symbolizes by a trident principles described in the elephant’s trunk. Tri means three, and sula means sharp. That is, the three natural forces of the human mind that is sharp creativity, taste, and intention.
Paksi Naga Liman from Kanoman Sultanate Cirebon
photo by tri wibowo
When the chariot is running, burak bodied animal, the elephantheaded, and dragon crown looks like flying. This is because the chariot using suspension technologies that can rock the body of the chariot back and fro so that the wings seem to move. This chariot was used by the kings of Cirebon started from the Panembahan Ratu Pakungwati I for a parade around the city of Cirebon every Syura 1st or Muharram 1st. The chariot was pulled by four albino buffaloes. But starting in 1942, the chariot was no longer used in the parade
photo by tri wibowo
photo by tri wibowo
wo royal chariots from the two ancient kingdoms in Cirebon, West Java, namely the Chariot of Singo Barong from the Kasepuhan Sultanate of Cirebon and the Chariot of Paksi Naga Liman from Kanoman Sultanate of Cirebon have attracted the attention of the audiences of Kirab Seni Keraton Nusantara (KSKN) 2012. The event was held by the Directorate of Art and Film Ministry of Education and Culture and took place in theTaman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII), East Jakarta recently. The chariot of Singo Barong was made in 1549 by a chariot architect Panembahan Losari and his sculptor Ki Notoguna from Kaliwulu. The making of the chariot was the initiative of the King of Cirebon Panembahan Ratu Pakungwati I who ruled in the period of 1526 - 1649. The shape of the chariot is an embodiment of the three animals, which were combined into one that is an elephant with its trunk, dragon as its crown and the body of a burak. The elephant trunk symbolizes friendship with India, which is a Hindus country, the head of the dragon symbolizes the friendship with Chinese (Buddhist) and the body of burak complete with its wings, symbolizing friendship with Egypt (Muslim). This proves that Kasepuhan palace founded by Sunan Gunungjati which is an Islamic kingdom was already open and made friend
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Sapta Nirwandar (tengah) berfoto bersama dengan peserta seminar yang terdiri dari wartawan, pelaku industri dan pemerintah daerah.
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otensi sungai dan danau di Indonesia untuk pariwisata sangat besar, tercatat tidak kurang dari 5.590 sungai dengan berbagai karakteristiknya dan diperkirakan terdapat 840 danau besar dan 735 danau kecil. Namun, dibutuhkan upaya sungguh-sungguh untuk mengoptimalkan sungai dan danau untuk kegiatan pariwisata. “Pemetaan sungai dan danau yang dikembangkan untuk pariwisata itu sudah ada. Data ilmiahnya sudah ada sejak dulu. Mulai dari Danau Toba sampai Danau Sentani, belum lagi sungai-sungai kecil untuk rafting, itu sudah ada. Tapi pengembangan itu ada di daerah dan belum optimal,” ujar Wakil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif, Sapta Nirwandar dalam seminar “Mengoptimalkan Sungai dan Danau Menjadi Destinasi Wisata Layak Jual” di Hotel Grand Sahid Jaya, Jakarta belum lama ini. Dalam seminar yang digagas Forum Wartawan Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Forwarparekraf) dan didukung Direktorat Pemasaran Pariwisata Kemenparekraf ini, Sapta menjelaskan cara
mengoptimalkan sungai dan dan danau untuk pariwisata adalah pertama-tama harus menciptakan kisah sukses dengan pendekatan paling efektif. Menurutnya, berdasarkan pengalamannya, studi mengenai potensi sudah ada sejak lama. “Seperti wisata bahari itu studinya dari tahun 1970 sudah ada, tapi kenapa Raja Ampat baru muncul sekarang, tidak dari dulu di tahun 1970,” ujar Sapta. Namun, lanjutnya, tidak ada implementasi yang cepat. Ia menjelaskan pendekatan paling efektif untuk promosikan sungai dan danau adalah melalui dua hal yaitu sport tourism atau wisata olahraga dan culture tourism atau wisata budaya. “Seperti Sepang, siapa yang pernah mendengar Sepang. Dulu tidak terdengar. Lalu dibikin Sirkuit Sepang. Sekarang semua yang punya televisi pasti lihat Sepang setiap tahunnya,” tutur Sapta. “Rumus untuk mempromosikan danau dan sungai cuma dua, yaitu melalui event sport atau culture tourism,” kata Sapta. Menurutnya, event olahraga dan budaya yang
photo by spc
Praktek Online Travel Agent Ilegal Resahkan Anggota Asita
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eberadaan biro-biro perjalanan online yang beroperasi tanpa izin kian meresahkan anggota Asosiasi Biro Perjalanan Wisata Asita atau Association of the Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies Bali. Bagus Sudibya, Ketua Bidang Organisasi dan Pemasaran Luar Negeri Asita Pusat mengatakan praktek biro perjalanan online atau online travel agent ilegal tersebut tidak bisa dianggap remeh, karena berdasarkan perhitungannya potensi kamar yang dijual ke wisatawan bisa mencapai 200 ribu kamar per malam selama setahun. “Biro perjalanan online yang tanpa izin ini juga tidak membayar pajak dari hasil transaksi karena langsung masuk ke pelaku usaha online yang berada di luar daerah atau luar negeri. Apabila dibandingkan dengan Asita yang setiap tahun mampu menghasilkan 5 juta kamar per malam yang keuntungannya tetap dihitung dalam pajak pendapatan untuk kontribusi kepada pembangunan,” ujarnya. Dikatakan, ini memang merupakan salah satu tantangan di era pasar bebas, oleh karena itu perlu regulasi pemerintah untuk menertibkannya. Apalagi, biro perjalanana online ini berisiko besar kepada konsumen karena tidak ada pertanggungjawaban secara hukum setelah bertransaksi. “Didorong para anggota bergabung dalam wadah koperasi untuk menggalang dana agar dapat bernegosiasi dengan pihak hotel. Tujuannya untuk mendapatkan harga kamar dengan harga yang lebih rendah dari kontrak yang dihasilkan perusahaan biro perjalanan di luar anggota Asita,” katanya. Ditambahkannya, misalnya dengan posisi tawar sebanyak 5 juta kamar per malam selama setahun, kenapa tidak bisa mendapatkan harga yang lebih rendah US$1 dari online travel agent melalui perolehan dana yang terkumpul di koperasi. Sementara Wakil Ketua DPD Asita Bali Ketut Ardhana mengatakan perlu penegakan hukum untuk menertibkan biro perjalanan online ilegal tersebut. Isu ini, akan menjadi salah satu pokok bahasan dalam Musda XII Asita mendatang. (*/bisnis.com)
diselenggarakan di danau atau sungai adalah cara yang ampuh. Dengan adanya kedua event tersebut, pemerintah daerah dan lembaga masyarakat akan bekerja keras untuk mempercantik tempat tersebut. Hal ini lebih efektif daripada menginstruksikan Pemda untuk mempercantik danau dan sungai di daerahnya. Sapta mencontohkan, Tour de Langkawi yang mengangkat Langkawi di Malaysia sebagai destinasi wisata dunia. Pendekatan budaya bisa dilihat di Bangkok, Thailand. Menurut Sapta, di Thailand menawarkan susur sungai dengan menonjolkan sisi sejarah. “Spot heritage diberi lampu. Jadi malam masih bisa menyusuri sungai dan bangunan heritage tetap terlihat,” tuturnya. Sungai Chao Praya di Thailand, tutur Sapta, menjadi salah satu kisah sukses pengembangan wisata sungai. Baru-baru ini, pemerintah membuat acara pariwisata dengan pendekatan olahraga di Sungai Musi bertajuk Musi Triboatton. Menurut Sapta, pengembangan sungai dan danau melalui instruksi tertulis untuk membangun sungai danau bagi pariwisata merupakan
hal yang susah. Cara terbaik menuturnya adalah dengan mengadakan acara yang memiliki nilai berita sehingga banyak diberitakan media. “Seperti Sungai Musi, acara Musi Triboatton kemarin, itu mulai dari bupati sampai wali kota datang. Karena ada news value-nya, mereka juga buat event kecil tambahan di setiap kabupaten seperti culture performance, culinary, ada naik perahu,” jelasnya. Selain itu, seperti pengalaman pemerintah menggarap Tour de Singkarak, sebuah ajang balap sepeda yang menyusuri kabupaten dan kota di Sumatera Barat, pelaksanaan itu juga “memaksa” pemerintah daerah untuk saling berkoordinasi. “Saat Tour de Singkarak, kalau rapat koordinasi selalu datang bupati dan wakil-nya, karena event yang memiliki news value, media banyak yang datang. Rapat koordinasi juga bisa lebih sukses karena sampai didatangi gubernur,” ucapnya. Oleh karena itu, menurut Sapta sebuah agenda bisa “memaksa” daerah untuk bergerak membangun pariwisata sungai dan danau. Tentu, lanjutnya, perlu dukungan antara pemerintah pusat dan daerah. Kesempatan sama, Firdaus Ali dari Indonesia Water Institute (IWI) dan Pusat Kajian Sumber Daya Air Indonesia mengatakan dirinya mengakui, miris melihat sungai-sungai di Indonesia yang kurang terjaga. Padahal sungai adalah sumber air bersih untuk kehidupan, untuk industri, dan juga untuk pariwisata. “Salah satu fungsi sungai adalah untuk pariwisata. Indonesia punya 5.590 daerah aliran sungai dan panjang total 94.573 km. Ini potensi yang besar,” tegas Firdaus Ali. Pelestarian sungai, tambah Firdaus, harus menjadi sorotan penting. Contohnya adalah Kali Besar di Kota Tua, Jakarta. “Kalau sungai ditata baik, kota tuanya juga akan baik. Di sana banyak bangunan-bangunan bersejarah di sekitar sungainya, bisa menjadi tempat wisata dan menenangkan diri,” ujar Firdaus. Firdaus menambahkan, negara Singapura pun mendapat devisa dan mendatangkan banyak wisatawan dari Singapore River-nya. Di sana wisatawan dapat menikmati sungai dan tidur di hotel yang menghadap ke sungai. Berbagai cara tersebut diharapkan mampu membuat sungai-sungai di Indonesia bersaing dengan sungai di Eropa. (*)
Januari -Oktober Kunjungan Wisman Capai 6,5 Juta Pergerakan 245 Juta Wisatawan Nusantara
photo by tri wibowo
photo by spc
Potensi Wisata Sungai dan Danau di Indonesia Sangat Besar
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ndonesia tercatat telah menjaring 6,5 juta wisatawan mancanegara (wisman) pada periode Januari hingga Oktober 2012. “Secara kumulatif Januari hingga Oktober 2012 jumlah kunjungan wisman sebesar 6.583.629 wisman, atau mengalami pertumbuhan sebesar 5 persen dibandingkan Januari hingga Oktober 2011 yang berjumlah 6.270.244 wisman,” kata Menparekraf Mari Elka Pangestu dalam jumpa pers Capaian Wisatawan Oktober 2012 di Jakarta belum lama ini. Ia menilai pencapaian jumlah wisman hingga Oktober tahun ini semakin meyakinkan bahwa target kunjungan 8 juta wisman pada 2012 akan tercapai. Selain itu, pencapaian Oktober 2012 menunjukkan bahwa upaya untuk mengoptimalkan strategi pemasaran pada tiga bulan terakhir mulai menampakkan hasil. “Optimalisasi pemasaran pariwisata melalui program Year-end Festival yang difokuskan pada enam negara yaitu Singapura, Malaysia, Australia, China, Jepang telah menunjukkan pertumbuhan positif. Sementara tinggal pasar Korea Selatan yang pada Oktober 2012 pertumbuhannya masih negatif,? kata Mari Pangestu Pada Oktober 2012 kunjungan wisman dari Singapura, Jepang, dan China mengalami kenaikan yang signifikan, berturut-turut ke-
naikannya 10,2% , 15,48%, dan 45,98%. Ketiga pasar itu diharapkan akan memberikan kontribusi cukup besar dalam pencapaian target kunjungan wisman ke Indonesia pada tahun ini. Kunjungan wisman ke Indonesia berdasarkan negara asal pada Oktober 2012 dibandingkan Oktober 2011 yang mengalami pertumbuhan tertinggi yaitu; Uni Emirat Arab sebesar 82,68%, Bahrain 59,09%, Arab Saudi 50,98% persen, China 45,98%, dan Rusia 44,41%. Sementara secara kumulatif pada Januari hingga Oktober 2012 dibandingkan Januari hingga Oktober 2011 yang mengalami pertumbuhan tertinggi yaitu; Mesir sebesar 33,85%, China 26,41%, Thailand 13,59%, Bahrain 11,99% dan Uni Emirat Arab 11,52%. Untuk pertumbuhan wisman pada tiga pintu masuk utama Oktober 2012 dibandingkan Oktober 2011 yaitu Ngurah Rai meningkat 3,39%, Soekarno-Hatta dan Batam masing-masing meningkat 5,61% dan 7,35%. Adapun secara kumulatif Januari hingga Oktober 2012 pertumbuhan wisman pada tiga pintu masuk utama Ngurah Rai meningkat 3,44%, Soekarno-Hatta dan Batam meningkat 5,78% dan 5,30%.
Semakin banyaknya kegiatan pada musim liburan mampu mendongkrak mobilisasi wisatawan nusantara di Tanah Air. Mari Elka Pangestu, yakin target pergerakan 245 juta wisatawan Nusantara (wisnus) sampai tutup tahun ini akan tercapai. “Jumlah perjalanan wisnus semester pertama 2012 ini menunjukkan bahwa target yang sudah tercapai sekitar 43 persen dari 245 juta perjalanan,” kata Mari Pangestu. Pihaknya mencatat, jumlah wisnus yang melakukan perjalanan di dalam negeri pada semester pertama 2012 sebanyak 105.954.040 perjalanan, atau mengalami kenaikan sebesar 0,1 persen dibanding semester I tahun 2011 sebanyak 105.849.279 perjalanan. Pada 2011 jumlah perjalanan wisnus sebanyak 237 juta, dan tahun ini ditargetkan mencapai 245 juta perjalanan atau naik sekitar 1,3 persen. “Masih rendahnya jumlah perjalanan wisnus pada semester pertama 2012 ini dikarenakan antara lain belum masuknya perhitungan perjalanan wisnus pada musim liburan panjang seperti Hari Raya Lebaran, Natal dan Tahun Baru, maupun liburan sekolah,” jelasnya. Sebagai gambaran, pada musim liburan Hari Raya Idul Fitri pertengahan Agustus 2012, terjadi pergerakan wisnus sebanyak 16,5 juta. “Pergerakan wisnus dalam jumlah besar seperti ini juga akan terjadi pada liburan sekolah pada Juli dan Desember, serta pada liburan Natal dan Tahun Baru pada Desember ini,” paparnya. Mari berharap semakin banyaknya kegiatan pada musim liburan mampu mendongkrak mobilisasi wisnus di Tanah Air. Apalagi pendapatan perkapita, menurut dia, dari tahun ke tahun terus meningkat. Hal itu menjadi salah satu pendorong, semakin tingginya pergerakan jumlah wisnus di Indonesia. (*)
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Vol. VII No. 12, 2012
Aceh Bersiap Sambut Visit Aceh 2013
photo by spc
Scot Marciel: Penerbangan Langsung AS-Indonesia Penting Bagi Pariwisata
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photo by spc
uta Besar Amerika Serikat (AS) untuk Indonesia Scot Marciel menilai penerbangan langsung antara Indonesia dan Amerika Serikat merupakan faktor penting dalam mendorong kunjungan pariwisata kedua negara. “Kami menilai itu sebagai ide yang bagus, sudah sewajarnya kita sebagai negara ketiga dan keempat terbesar di dunia memiliki penerbangan langsung,” ujar Marciel di Jakarta. Dikatakan, saat ini telah ada pembicaraan mengenai rencana rute penerbangan langsung AS-Indonesia antara sejumlah maskapai penerbangan asal AS dan Indonesia, tetapi saya belum bisa memastikan kapan hal itu kapan terealisasi. “Kami harapkan dalam waktu dekat ini, mungkin satu atau dua tahun lagi,” katanya. Pemerintah Indonesia sebelumnya dikabarkan tengah mengupayakan dibukanya penerbangan langsung dari Indonesia ke AS, yang selama ini belum dimiliki Indonesia sehingga penerbangan jenis itu memewajibkan penumpang maskapai udara tujuan AS transit di sejumlah negara.
Penerbangan India-Indonesia Segera Berjalan
Tari Saman
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elama penyelenggaraan Visit Aceh 2013, Pemerintah Provinsi Nanggoroe Aceh Darussalam (NAD) menyiapkan rangkaian acara yang dapat memberikan pengalaman tak terlupakan bagi para wisatawan. Sebagai provinsi paling barat di Nusantara, Aceh punya banyak potensi wisata. Alam, budaya, kuliner, sampai wisata petualangan bisa ditemukan di sini. Oleh karena itu, Pemprov Aceh menggelar Visit Aceh 2013 dengan slogan “Aceh Fantastic Destination”. “Visit Aceh 2013 menurut saya langkah yang tepat. Provinsi Aceh punya keindahan alam yang tidak ternilai. Budaya juga sangat penting, karena orang banyak datang ingin lihat budayanya,” tutur Wakil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Wamenparekraf) Sapta Nirwandar Jakarta belum lama ini. Tujuan adanya Visit Aceh 2013 adalah untuk menginformasikan bahwa pariwisata Aceh telah siap menerima kunjungan wisatawan, baik domestik maupun mancanegara. Zaini Abdullah, Gubernur Aceh dalam kesempatan yang sama mengatakan kami percaya diri untuk menjamin keamanan saat berwisata di Aceh. “Aceh telah bersiap diri dan berbenah dalam berbagai bidang sepu-
tar dunia kepariwisataan. Pasca bencana tsunami pada 2004 lalu, pembangunan terus digerakkan baik infrastruktur maupun kehidupan masyarakat yang tertimpa bencana,” ujar Zaini. Zaini menambahkan, peristiwa tersebut meninggalkan banyak situs yang sekarang jadi objek wisata. Wisatawan yang datang ke Aceh juga tak perlu ribet ngurus visa karena sudah ada Visa on Arrival di Bandara Sultan Iskandar Muda,” tambahnya. Untuk mengisi tahun kunjungan wisatawan ini, Aceh akan menggelar beragam kegiatan seperti kompetisi rafting internasional di Sungai Alas, Tour de Aceh Bicycle di Banda Aceh, dan kompetisi surfing internasional di Pulau Semeulue. Provinsi Aceh sangat kaya wisata. Bayangkan saja, provinsi ini punya 426 wisata alam, 268 wisata budaya, dan 114 wisata khusus yang unik seperti wisata tsunami, kuliner, dan kerajinan rakyat. “Saya optimistis Visit Aceh 2013 akan sukses dan memberi masukan bagi perekonomian setempat,” tutur Sapta. Rangkaian program yang dimulai pada 1 Januari 2013 ini akan menyuguhkan beragam penawaran dan paket wisata menarik. Misalnya, terhitung sepekan sejak 1 Januari 2013, wisatawan yang datang melalui Ban-
dara Sultan Iskandar Muda akan dimanjakan dengan fasilitas jemput gratis menuju Banda Aceh. Pada hari pertama program, tepatnya 1 Januari 2013, wisatawan akan diajak berkeliling kota secara gratis. Fasilitas disediakan Pemprov NAD bekerja sama dengan Dinas Kebudayaan dan Pariwisata Aceh. Untuk mengisi tahun kunjungan wisata selama 2013, Aceh pun sudah menyiapkan rangkaian acara menarik. Acara tersebut tidak hanya diadakan di Kota Banda Aceh, juga hingga ke pulau-pulau kecil yang berada di sekitarnya. Kegiatan menarik yang berhubungan dengan kegiatan air, misalnya menyelam, akan difokuskan di daerah Sabang. Sebuah kompetisi rafting bertaraf internasional juga akan diselenggarakan di Sungai Alas yang mengalir di Aceh bagian tenggara. Sementara itu, festival selancar internasional akan diselenggarakan di Pulau Semeulu. Tak ketinggalan, Kabupaten Aceh Tengah yang terkenal dengan Bumi Gayo mempersiapkan berbagai suguhan menarik bagi wisatawan. Festival Danau Laut Tawar, kegiatan pacuan kuda tradisional, Gebyar Seni Budaya Gayo, dan acara minum kopi menjadi agenda pariwisata di daerah ini. (*)
photo by spc
Ekspansi Pasar Batik Memenuhi Kebutuhan Desain Interior
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ain batik yang selama ini hanya difungsikan untuk tata busana harus memulai ekspansi pasar untuk memenuhi kebutuhan desain interior. Ketua Umum Yayasan Batik Indonesia, Jultin
Ginanjar Kartasasmita mengatakan batik perlu ekspansi pasar agar industri yang sangat potensial ini dapat berkembang dan kesejahteraan pengrajin dapat meningkat. “Jika hanya untuk memenuhi kebutuhan
busana, produksinya tidak maksimal, karena itu perlu diperluas untuk mempercantik desain interior baik di dinding ataupun perabotan. Untuk mendukung perluasan pasar batik tersebut, Yayasan Batik Indonesia, akan mengadakan lomba tata saji batik pada 2013 nanti. Kompetisi tersebut merupakan salah satu rangkaian acara Gelar Batik Nusantara yang akan diselenggarakan pada 17-21 Juli 2013 di Jakarta,” ujarnya. Dikatakan, lomba tata saji ini belum pernah diselenggarakan pada Gelar Batik Nusantara sebelumnya. Kompetisi ini bertujuan untuk mengenalkan pada masyarakat bahwa penggunaan batik tidak hanya sebatas untuk busana. “Yayasan Batik Nusantara juga meluncurkan website Gelar Batik Nusantara sebagai pusat informasi untuk masyarakat yang ingin mengetahui lebih lanjut penyelenggaraan acara tahunan tersebut. Pertumbuhan industri batik Indonesia dilihat dari sisi produksi telah mencapai 35% dalam kurun waktu lima tahun dari 2006 sampai 2011. Tahun lalu, total nilai ekonomi produksi batik mencapai Rp1,9 triliun, atau naik Rp400 miliar dari tahun 2006. “Sementara nilai ekspor pada periode yang sama tumbuh 13% menjadi US$43 juta pada 2011. Industri batik menurut data Kementerian Perindustrian telah menyerap sedikitnya 170.000 pekerja,” ungkapnya. (*)
Kesempatan terpisah, Duta Besar India untuk Indonesia dan ASEAN, Gurjit Singh menginginkan penerbangan langsung dari India ke Indonesia bisa terrealisasi pada tahun 2013 mengingat kedua negara telah memiliki perjanjian bilateral. “Dua pemerintah telah setuju bahwa harus ada jalur penerbangan, kami sudah memiliki perjanjian bilateral. Harapannya tahun depan sudah ada penerbangan India-Indonesia,” ujar Singh. Singh mengatakan, namun saya tidak menjelaskan bagaimana perjanjian bilateral antarakedua negara itu. Ditekankan bahwa yang diperlukan untuk mensukseskan jalur penerbangan kedua negara adalah adanya keinginan besar dari pihak maskapai penerbangan untuk melayani rute itu. “Pihak Kedutaan India mendorong maskapai penerbangan nasional Garuda Indonesia dan beberapa maskapai penerbangan swasta India untuk melihat potensi pasar kedua negara. Hambatannya hanya mengenai penghitungan maskapai penerbangan komersial itu, kalau level pemerintah tidak ada hambatan,” ungkapnya. (*)
Segmen Pasar Wisata Religi Perlu Diperluas
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isata religi atau ziarah potensinya cukup besar di Indonesia, baik itu berupa peninggalan sejarah tempat ibadah maupun kebudayaan yang berkait agama banyak tersebar di Indonesia. Namun perlu promosi yang intensif agar destinasi lebih dikenal masyarakat. Direktur Promosi Pariwisata Dalam Negeri Kemenparekraf, M. Faried menyatakan, segmen pasar wisata religi perlu diperluas tidak terbatas pada masyarakat Muslim tetapi juga non-Muslim. “Dalam hal ini kita perlu meninjau ulang pengertian wisata ziarah dengan begitu segmen pasarnya tidak sempit dan bisa diperluas,” kata M. Faried di Jakarta. Menurut dia, selama ini wisata ziarah dipersepsikan sebagai wisata yang mengunjungi makam semata. Dan hal itu terkesan seakan dilakukan oleh umat Muslim saja, kata Faried. “Oleh karena itu kita harus memperdalam pemahaman tentang wisata ziarah,” katanya. Ia menambahkan, secara harfiah wisata ziarah artinya mengunjungi, sehingga sesungguhnya mempunyai obyek yang beragam. “Bisa saja rumah orang, makam orang Muslim atau non-Muslim, tempat ibadah Islam dan non-Islam, lembaga pendidikan, museum, upacara keagamaan, dan sebagainya,” katanya. Faried mengakui selama ini di Indonesia, wisata ziarah cenderung lebih banyak diartikan sebagai kunjungan wisatawan ke makam-makam. Pihaknya sendiri mendorong pelaku usaha pariwisata di Indonesia untuk mengembangkan wisata ziarah karena Indonesia memiliki destinasi wisata ziarah yang memang beragam. “Awal bulan lalu kami memfasilitasi pertemuan ‘business to business’ khusus untuk wisata ziarah. Kami memfasilitasi 50 biro perjalanan di Surabaya sebagai ‘sellers’ dan 30 ‘buyers’ dari berbagai daerah,” katanya. Melalui kegiatan itu, Faried berharap wisata ziarah semakin berkembang di Indonesia dan semakin luas segmen pasarnya. Menurut dia, wisata ziarah di Indonesia bisa dijadikan andalan sebagai sumber wisatawan karena hampir tidak mengenal “season”. “Potensinya juga luar biasa, yang terbesar di Jawa Timur tapi di daerah lain juga berkembang dengan baik,” katanya. Lantaran tidak mengenal musim, maka wisata ziarah dinilainya potensial untuk memberikan kontribusi positif terhadap pergerakan jumlah wisatawan. (*)
Vol. VII No. 11, 2012
Bali baliku Luxury Villas offers a casual life style alternative that is free from obvious city pressures. With a golden sand beach front right on the door step, there is a constant reminder of some of the precious qualities that one is often to busy to appreciate. Jimbaran Bay is renewed for it’s “catch of the day” seafood dining and vibrant sunsets over the distant horizon. The bay instils a sense of tranquillity that somehow manages to rebalance the body, mind and spirit.
Jalan Bukit Permai No. 5A, Jimbaran - Bali - Indonesia 80362 p : +62 361 701 848 f : +62 361 701 847 e:
[email protected] w. www.balibalikuvilla.com
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Modern Home Comfort that embrance the Balinese way of life
