Indonesia's MICE Industry Takes The Lead in Boosting Tourism

Indonesia is an island country with many different cultures, making it one of the most diverse countries in the world with beautiful natural landscapes. According to data from Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS), the number of foreign tourist visits from January to May 2024 reached 5.24 million. This figure is up 23.78 percent compared to the same period in 2023. Indonesian tourism is not apart from the MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention, Exhibition) industry that is currently growing rapidly.

The MICE sector contributes about 30 percent to the national tourism industry. However, MICE tourists spend much more money than regular tourists, even though there are fewer of them. With its increasingly sophisticated business facilities, Indonesia has great potential for developing the MICE industry, which will bring great economic and cultural benefits. Through art exhibitions, traditional performances, and cultural discussions, MICE activities can also support creative industries and enhance local culture.

Indonesia has already had the experience of hosting an impressive international event that has been praised by many in the world. In 2018, Indonesia successfully realized the Energy of Asia in the 18th Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang. In May 2024, Indonesia successfully hosted the World Water Forum (WWF) in Bali. Indonesia was chosen to host WWF 2024 because it has more than 17,000 islands and a variety of water resources. Hosting the World Water Forum has given Indonesia an advantage as a driving force for the Bali tourism sector, which has suffered a decline as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy/Head of the Tourist and Creative Economy Agency (Menparekraf/Kabaparekraf) said it would encourage more industries or companies in Indonesia to build and make tourist destinations in Indonesia as MICE destinations (meeting, incentive, conference, exhibition). He said Indonesia has great potential in the development of the MICE industry. MICE also has a high contribution to the economy of the community, because MICE tourists are said to spend 3-4 times more than leisure and have a longer stay, and MICE activities on an international scale are an effective promotion for Indonesia in the global arena.

Indonesia is the perfect place to hold international conferences, business meetings, corporate events, trade fairs, and incentive trips to major cities such as Jakarta, Bali, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and other big cities. With modern infrastructure, complete facilities, and stunning natural beauty, Indonesia offers an unforgettable experience for participants and visitors. Not only that, but the hospitality of the locals as well as the rich cultural and culinary diversity make Indonesia an attractive and enjoyable destination. Therefore, to guarantee the success of the MICE event and the satisfaction of all the parties involved, Indonesia is the right place to do it.