Indonesia Prepares World-Class Event Ecosystem for Modern Tourism's New Engine

The tourism world today no longer just talks about destinations and natural scenery. The event industry, from business conferences to creative festivals, has become a new engine driving the global tourism wheel. Amidst this dynamic, Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Luh Puspa emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration to elevate Indonesia's event industry to a higher level.

"I believe that with the collaborative spirit we've demonstrated throughout this event, we can continue building a stronger, more inclusive, and globally competitive event ecosystem," stated Ni Luh when contacted in Jakarta on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

This statement was delivered during the closing of the Southeast Asia Business Events Forum (SEABEF) 2025 in Bali on Saturday, October 11, 2025. The event served as a gathering platform for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) industry players across Southeast Asia, including event organizers, investors, and policymakers.

Events as the New Face of Tourism

In her address, Ni Luh Puspa stressed that the strength of the event industry lies not in grand stages or visitor numbers, but in collaborative capabilities to create sustainable economic and social impacts.

She also noted that SEABEF 2025 represented a crucial momentum for stakeholders to exchange ideas and design new directions for the regional MICE industry.

"The future success of the event industry won't be determined by how fierce the competition is, but by how effectively each party can collaborate," she asserted.

With this spirit, Ni Luh hopes the forum can lay the foundation for long-term cooperation among Southeast Asian nations.

"We hope to reconvene at SEABEF 2026 and continue collaborating to establish Southeast Asia as the world's premier business events hub," she added.

Five Key Outcomes from SEABEF 2025

Meanwhile, MICE Assistant Deputy at the Tourism Ministry, Titus Haridjati, revealed that SEABEF 2025 produced five main points to guide the industry's future development:

First, forum participants committed to strengthening sustainability in all events, from waste management to energy efficiency.

Second, an agreement emerged to expand investments in infrastructure, technology, and human resource development to boost the region's global competitiveness.

Third, establishment of the Southeast Asia Event Industry Collaboration Network as a platform for sharing innovations and cross-border opportunities.

Fourth, recognition of new technologies like AI and data analytics as vital tools for enhancing efficiency and participant experiences in modern events.

Fifth, emphasis on workforce competency development through certification and training to prepare human resources for international competition.

Charting a New Course for the MICE Industry

During its two-day run, SEABEF 2025 hosted over 250 participants from Southeast Asia and the Pacific, representing government institutions, industry associations, academia, and private sector players.

With its inspiring atmosphere and collaborative energy, the forum proves tourism's future lies not only on beaches, mountains, or luxury resorts, but also in meeting rooms where great ideas are born and the world moves forward together.