Indonesia is targeting to become a top destination for premium tourism by focusing on two fast growing segments, wellness tourism and senior friendly travel. To that end, Indonesia can capitalize on the rising demand for medical and wellness-related travel, longer stays and high-value tourists seeking unique and transformative trips with wellness and senior-friendly tourism.
Indonesia’s wellness tourism is growing: Ministry of Tourism. Wellness tourism will be a priority, said Nia Niscaya, the ministry’s spokesperson, as Indonesia is targeting the development of sustainable and high-end tourism. The government is seeking to enhance and upgrade wellness products, service quality, innovation, investment attraction, international promotion and human resources.
As stated by Nia Niscaya, wellness and medical tourists are currently seeking destinations that offer more than just typical tourist attractions. Wellness travellers are seeking alternative health paradigms such as active holidays, nature immersion, sport, and unique cultural experiences. In addition, such tourists are willing to pay more for a longer stay in the destination.
According to the government data, wellness-related activities represent 13.35% of total international arrivals for 2024. The Global Wellness Institute recently projected the wellness economy to be worth US$6.8 trillion in 2024 and is expected to expand to US$9.75 trillion in 2029. Indonesia has the most significant wellness economy in Southeast Asia, valued at US$55.8 billion.
Meanwhile, according to spokesperson Nia Niscaya, Indonesia is also preparing for the rising demand from senior tourists. The government is promoting a senior-friendly tourism ecosystem through partnerships with government agencies, healthcare, tourism businesses, universities, and industry groups.
Indonesia is taking steps to provide more accessible tourism environments, healthcare, treatment, healthy eating, and convenient senior-friendly travel itineraries that include physical activities and cultural experiences. Not only does the government strive to make necessary adjustments for senior tourists, but it also wants to provide an altogether new tourism experience that involves nature, culture, wellness, and comfort.
Indonesia is targeting wellness and senior-friendly tourism, one of the fastest growing segments in tourism, and catering to their demand for longer stays, medical treatments and high-spending visitors seeking unique experiences, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno said.
