Jakarta: Indonesia and Malaysia strengthened tourism ties through the recent Sales Mission event for the Special Capital Region of Jakarta (DKI Jakarta), with a focus on the Melaka market.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Johor Bahru Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia stated that the three-day programme, which ended yesterday, was organised by the DKI Jakarta government in collaboration with the consulate general. It brought together 33 Melaka tourism industry players and 25 operators from DKI Jakarta, with participation from the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Indonesia Inbound Tour Operator Association, Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association Jakarta, and the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents.

The Johor Bahru Consul General Sigit S. Widiyanto, in his opening remarks, highlighted that ties between Jakarta and Melaka extend beyond economic collaboration to shared history and culture. He remarked that the two cities are akin to twin siblings born of the same maritime spice route, emphasizing that tourism cooperation involves not just visitor numbers but also the strengthening of cultural bonds and understanding.

The programme aims to spur the development of new tourism packages built around historical and cultural narratives, particularly the maritime trade links that once connected Jakarta and Melaka. Consul General Widiyanto expressed hope that this spirit of collaboration will create a sustainable, mutually beneficial tourism ecosystem while strengthening regional solidarity in Southeast Asia.

The event was further enhanced by cultural performances from Sanggar Nusa Budaya, featuring the Tari Bintang Jakarta, a dance combining Betawi movements and silat, as well as a special appearance by Abang and None Jakarta 2024.