'Malaysian Tourists Invited to Explore Minang Nature and Culture on 'Wonderful Indonesia Journey'
Source: Ministry of Tourism
The enticing aroma of rendang filled the air, accompanied by the gentle chimes of talempong in the distance, as rolling green hills embraced the winding road to Bukittinggi. This experience awaited Malaysian tourists through the "Wonderful Indonesia Journey" famtrip program.
This journey was crafted not merely for sightseeing, but to fall in love with West Sumatra.
The Ministry of Tourism, through Deputy Minister for Marketing Ni Made Ayu Marthini, explained this initiative was part of ongoing efforts to showcase regional charms and extend foreign tourists' stays in Indonesia.
"Supported by collaboration with partners and stakeholders, the Tourism Ministry continuously encourages international tourists to explore diverse destinations and prolong their stay in Indonesia," stated Made in Jakarta on Wednesday.
West Sumatra's selection was deliberate. Data showed Malaysian tourists made 60,894 visits to the province in 2024, reflecting strong interest in Minang cultural uniqueness and captivating natural beauty.
Held from October 27-31, 2025, the famtrip hosted seven travel agents and tour operators from Kuala Lumpur to experience premier destinations including Padang, Bukittinggi, and Alahan Panjang.
Participants savored authentic Minang cuisine, engaged with local communities, and visited breathtaking landscapes—from emerald valleys to sun-dappled lakes shimmering in the afternoon light.
Beyond tourism, business opportunities flourished through mini table-top sessions connecting West Sumatra's tourism industry players with Malaysian agents. This aimed to forge new collaborations and market Minang tour packages to Malaysia.
This program formed part of the global Wonderful Indonesia GoBeyondOrdinary campaign, inviting travelers to discover authentic Indonesian experiences.
"Their travel interest stems from proximity, cultural similarities, and affordable luxury concepts," Made explained.
Alongside this famtrip, the ministry conducted multiple 2025 promotions in Malaysia—from Penang and Kuala Lumpur business matchings to participation in MATTA Fair 2025, Malaysia's largest tourism exhibition.
By August 2025, 1,682,745 Malaysian tourists had visited Indonesia, achieving 67% of the annual target.
Through strategies blending natural beauty, cultural warmth, and sustained promotion, Indonesia appears increasingly ready to welcome more visitors from neighboring nations. With its unique charms, West Sumatra emerges as a golden gateway to a more vibrant tourism future.(Antara)
