Targeting Young Australian Tourists Through Edutourism, Tourism Ministry Holds 'Archipelago Gems' Famtrip

Indonesia is no longer just 'selling' beaches and culture as tourist attractions. The Ministry of Tourism (Kemenpar) is promoting a new approach, positioning Indonesia as an educational tourism (edutourism) destination for young Australian travelers.

To achieve this mission, Kemenpar collaborated with Garuda Indonesia, the Indonesian Consulate General in Sydney, and the Indonesian Consulate General in Melbourne to organize a Familiarization Trip (Famtrip) themed "Archipelago Gems: Islands of Ancient Souls" from October 15–20, 2025.

This program attracted participants from educational institutions, travel agencies, and education associations across Australia.

"We hope this activity strengthens Indonesia's top-of-mind position in the Australian market, not only as a holiday destination but also as a safe, comfortable, and relevant educational tourism destination for young Australian travelers," said Kemenpar's Deputy Minister for Marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini in Jakarta on Saturday.

This Famtrip follows up on the 2025 Educational Business Matching and educational tourism promotion, forming part of the strategy to boost Australian tourist arrivals.

The Australian delegation comprised 15 participants divided into two travel groups based on preferred destinations.

"This Famtrip is a strategic step toward achieving the target of 1.8 million Australian visitors while encouraging visitation distribution through Indonesia's two main tourism hubs: Bali and Jakarta," stated Made.

Yogyakarta: Cultural Experience Hub

All participants first experienced Yogyakarta's cultural richness. They stayed at Tentrem Hotel, then joined educational tours including Borobudur Trail of Civilization, Ullen Sentalu Museum, Sonobudoyo Museum, and Wukirsari Tourism Village.

Participants engaged directly in storytelling and batik-making activities, with explanations provided by English-speaking guides.

This format delivered immersive and interactive learning experiences.

They also networked with Tourism Office representatives, industry players, and delegates from Wukirsari, Pentingsari, and Krebet Tourism Villages during a networking dinner.

Jakarta: Tradition Meets Modernity

The first group proceeded to Jakarta from October 18–20, 2025. Their culturally rich itinerary included: Jamu Workshop at Acaraki, National Museum visit, Jakarta Old Town walking tour, Wayang Museum Workshop, and accommodations at a Jakarta hotel.

These locations showcased Jakarta's blend of traditional heritage with contemporary approaches.

East Bali: Nature, Spirituality, and Local Immersion

The second group explored Bali's more authentic eastern region, visiting Karangasem, Samsara Living Museum, and Taro Tourism Village.

In Taro Village, participants experienced local life—including nocturnal firefly attractions and cultural activities.

Strengthening Indonesia's Position in the Australian Market

Through these initiatives, Indonesia aims to expand access and exposure as a quality edutourism destination while strengthening bilateral education-tourism cooperation.

"The Tourism Ministry will continue promoting similar programs through integrated promotion strategies, stakeholder partnerships, and maximizing education-based tourism potential," concluded Made.