Kota Bharu: The Kelantan Tourism Information Centre (TIC) has set an ambitious target to attract 50,000 tourists from Indonesia to the state within the year, as disclosed by its Director, Mohd Zaki Ismail. He indicated that Kelantan has emerged as a new destination of interest for Indonesian tourists, thanks to promotional efforts spearheaded by the Malaysian Budget and Business Hotels Association (MyBHA).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, many Indonesians have been familiar with Malaysia but were previously unaware of what Kelantan specifically had to offer. Last year, a promotional visit was conducted to Riau, Indonesia, which was part of a reciprocal business-to-business (B2B) initiative. This effort saw representatives from the Indonesian travel industry visiting the state to explore its attractions firsthand, referred to by locals as the state of Cik Siti Wan Kembang.

The Head of the Riau Association of Indonesian Travel Agents (Astindo), Harpina Dian Sari, noted that a 30-member delegation visited Kelantan for the first time. Traditionally, travel agents would guide tourists to popular destinations such as Kuala Lumpur and Melaka. However, the recent trip to Kelantan revealed the state's diverse attractions, budget-friendly accommodations, and efficient road networks.

Kelantan is characterized by its serene villages, natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and traditional cuisine, making it a unique alternative to more bustling cities. Kelantan MyBHA Association chairman Mohd Asri Husin emphasized that Indonesian tourists often overlook Kelantan due to a lack of awareness about its potential as a tourist destination. He believes that initiatives like these will encourage more Indonesian tourists to consider Kelantan for their holidays.