ASEAN Tourism Awards 2026: Bogor Botanical Gardens Recognized as Urban Green Tourism

Bogor Botanical Gardens once again proves its role as a green space by winning an award at the ASEAN Tourism Awards 2026. This Tourist Destination was recognized as a model for sustainable urban conservation tourism in Southeast Asia.

The award was received by PT Mitra Natura Raya (MNR) as the manager of Tourism services at Bogor Botanical Gardens, in partnership with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) since 2020. 

This collaboration forms an important foundation in maintaining the balance between Nature Conservation, scientific research, and public tourism experiences.

The Director of PT Mitra Natura Raya, Marga Anggrianto, stated this achievement is the result of consistent collective work in preserving Bogor Botanical Gardens' character as a living conservation area in the heart of the city.

“This award is an appreciation for all parties who have worked hard to maintain the balance between Environmental Conservation functions and tourism. We are committed to continuously improving service quality according to international standards,” said Marga.

Bogor Botanical Gardens won the award in the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award – Urban Category at the ASEAN Tourism Awards, part of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 series in Cebu, Philippines, on January 30, 2026. 

This category specifically highlights urban destinations capable of managing tourism without sacrificing environmental sustainability.

The recognition was granted after undergoing a rigorous curation process.

Aspects assessed included environmental management effectiveness, area sustainability, community involvement, and the success in integrating biodiversity conservation with tourism services in an urban area.

As a standardization program for tourism destinations in ASEAN countries, the ASEAN Tourism Awards emphasizes the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and service quality. 

This award serves as an important instrument to strengthen Southeast Asia's position as a Tourist Destination responsible towards the environment.

The success of Bogor Botanical Gardens also strengthens Indonesia's tourism image at the regional level, particularly in developing research and conservation-based Green Tourism in urban areas, a sector increasingly relevant amidst climate change and urbanization challenges.

With a collection of over 12,000 plant specimens and an area spanning 87 hectares in the center of Bogor City, Bogor Botanical Gardens demonstrates that conservation, botanical research, and public service can proceed hand-in-hand sustainably.

Established in 1817, Bogor Botanical Gardens, the oldest botanical garden in Southeast Asia, is now transforming into an icon of educational and conservation tourism. 

The ASEAN Tourism Awards 2026 affirms its role as a reference for urban green destination management in the ASEAN region, while also proving that cities and nature can grow together.