Indonesia’s President has named a new Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy. Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno (more commonly referred to as Sandiaga Uno, or ‘Sandi’) will replace Wishnutama Kusubandio in the position, and will be central to implementing government plans for a sector-wide revival in 2021.
Indonesia’s new tourism minister has already struck a dynamic and defiant tone in recent statements, outlining his intentions to unite political factions and find solutions to the current crisis. “Everything we do is for the sake of the nation and the state,” said Uno in a speech last week, in which he emphasised the shared responsibility of everyone working in the tourism sector. “This is the time we have responsibilities rest[ing] on each of our shoulders,” he added.
A key part of the new role will involve sparking investment from abroad, particularly with regards to cultural tourism. With an international education and a strong background in business, Sandi is seen as the perfect candidate to facilitate this programme of economic revival. This investment will be central to Indonesia’s plans to develop new destinations in the months ahead, in locations such as Labuan Bajo, Likupang, Lake Toba, Mandalika and Borobudur.
The new configuration of political leaders has been dubbed the ‘Indonesia Forward’ Cabinet, and is geared towards driving the nation through the economic doldrums of Covid-19 and into a new year defined by health, prosperity and growth. Integral to this recovery effort is the tourism sector, which is set to receive an influx of government funding to spark a revival in the months ahead. This, combined with several industry partnerships and a raft of promotions, is expected to help the industry get back on its feet and return to normal operations as soon as possible.
Sandi previously held the position of Jakarta Governor. He also ran as a candidate for Vice President (against Jokowi) on the Prabowo Subianto ticket at the last general election. Born in Riau but educated in the USA, Sandi will be tasked with leading the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy through its recovery from the global Covid-19 pandemic; he will be officially inducted into the position during a ceremony held in Jakarta today. Looking ahead to the first months of his appointment, Sandi hit a positive note: “I’m very optimistic and I think we can have a very exciting future in the tourism industry.”
