The Tourism Ministry participated in the Marine Diving Fair (MDF) in Japan to promote the marine tourism sector worldwide. The event took place at the Sunshine City Convention Center in Tokyo from April 5 to 7.

“The ministry’s participation in this event is to promote Indonesia as one of the favorite marine tourism destinations, especially for diving,” Ardi Hermawan, assistant deputy of marketing development region II, said in a press release.

The promotional effort is expected to increase the number of tourists, thus achieving the target of 20 million international tourists by 2019.

The event, which began in 1993, is the biggest and most popular diving tourism fair in Japan. It attracted 50,598 people in 2018, 82 percent of whom are divers and another 18 percent of whom represent resorts.

The Indonesian pavilion at the event features 15 companies from eight provinces. Most of them are diving locations such as North Sulawesi Travel from North Sulawesi, PT. Indonesia Kaktus Wisata Tirta (Poni Divers Bali) from Bali, Lembeh Resort from North Sulawesi, Noah Maratua Resort from East Kalimantan, PT. Putra Papua Baru from West Papua, PT. Bali Ocean Adventure (Blue Season Bali) from Bali, Ena Dive Travel & Marine Adventure from Bali and Cocotinos Hotels & Resorts from North Sulawesi.

Also at the event are Sangalaki Resort from North Kalimantan, Grand Komodo Raja Ampat Dive Lodge from Bali, Siladen Island Resort & Spa from North Sulawesi, Pearl of Papua Indonesia from Central Java, Doberai Private Island from West Papua, Dive Dream from Bali as well as Garuda Indonesia, according to Ardi.

Apart from exhibitions, presentations on the main stage by Indonesian diving experts, spa services and cultural performances were offered by the Indonesian pavilion, as well as business and consumer meetings and a tourist information service.

Furthermore, Indonesia’s world-renowned coffee will also be served.

Tourist Minister Arief Yahya describes the MDF as a great opportunity to promote Indonesia’s marine tourism to diving enthusiasts in Japan, which would boost the national tourism industry.

“If we discuss marine tourism, I have no doubt Indonesia is the champion. Indonesia´s coastline is the longest after Canada. Moreover, two thirds of the world´s best reefs are located here. If you want to dive and snorkel, then go to Indonesia. This is what we are offering at the MDF this year,” the minister said. (sop/mut)

Source: https://www.thejakartapost.com/travel/2019/04/12/indonesia-intends-to-attract-more-japanese-tourists-at-marine-diving-fair-in-tokyo.html