MoT Targets Tourists from Macau: Indonesia's Promotion Strategy in East Asia

Amidst the glittering resorts and elegant corridors of The Venetian Macao, Indonesia brings a different story. Not just tropical beaches or exotic islands, but a narrative of a journey that is more sustainable, culturally rich, and constantly regenerating.

Through the Macao International Travel (Industry) Expo 2026 or MITE 2026, the Ministry of Tourism aims to attract tourists from Macau while strengthening the presence of the Wonderful Indonesia Campaign in East Asia.

"This participation aims to strengthen awareness of Indonesian Tourism, which is now transforming towards Sustainable Tourism," said Deputy Minister of Marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini in Jakarta.

At the Indonesia Pavilion in Hall ABC booth C36, visitors were treated not only to destination brochures but also to glimpses of the new face of national tourism. 

During the three-day event from April 10-12, 2026, the Wonderful Indonesia Pavilion became a meeting space for industry players and prospective travelers. 

The Pre-scheduled Appointment System opened opportunities for Business-to-Business engagement, while direct activities with visitors encouraged tangible travel package transactions.

This strategy shows that modern Tourism Promotion is no longer just about showcasing panoramas, but about building business connections that lead to actual journeys.

The promoted destinations were designed to represent Indonesia's diversity: Jakarta, Bali, Bintan, Yogyakarta–Borobudur, East Java, to Labuan Bajo.

Yet most compelling was the emphasis on special interest tourism like gastronomy, wellness, maritime activities, and wastra-based cultural immersion. 

Indonesia wants to be known not only for its scenery but also for its flavors, traditions, and profound experiences.

Throughout the expo, the Indonesia Pavilion recorded 109 inquiries from potential buyers, indicating growing market interest from Macau toward Indonesia.

"Through the Wonderful Indonesia Pavilion, we expand partnership networks for Macau residents, international tourists, and the Indonesian diaspora, while demonstrating that Indonesia offers sustainable and regenerative tourism. We invite the world to see Indonesia beyond natural beauty, GoBeyondOrdinary," said Made.

Beyond destination promotion, another crucial factor is connectivity. For Macau tourists, ease of flying to Indonesia is a primary determinant in travel decisions.

Current travel access is supported by both national and international airlines via Hong Kong, including Garuda Indonesia as a strategic partner.

"The Ministry of Tourism is committed to strengthening collaboration with national airlines to increase frequency and expand direct flight networks in the future," she said.

Results are beginning to show. Macau tourist visits to Indonesia reached 1,573 in 2024, then surged 54.48 percent to 2,430 visits in 2025.