Indonesia has made a major move towards sustainable tourism with the launch of its Clean Tourism Movement, a new initiative designed to protect the country’s natural landscapes while enhancing the appeal of its top tourist destinations. Announced earlier this month, the program highlights the nation’s dedication to safeguarding its environmental treasures and improving the quality of its tourism industry.
The pilot phase of the Clean Tourism Movement has already kicked off, with Bali chosen as the first destination to implement the program. This ambitious initiative is focused on improving key tourism areas nationwide, including Bali, Mandalika, Borobudur, Labuan Bajo, Likupang, Lake Toba, Jakarta, and the Riau Islands. By focusing on these iconic spots, Indonesia aims to boost their appeal to both local and international travelers.
Advancing in Global Tourism Rankings Indonesia has made notable progress in the global tourism rankings, moving up from 32nd to 22nd place in the 2024 Tourism and Travel Development Index. However, its health and hygiene standards currently rank 86th out of 114 countries, highlighting a clear area for improvement. The Clean Tourism Movement aims to tackle this challenge by implementing initiatives that promote cleanliness and environmental responsibility. The Deputy Tourism Minister praised Bali’s leading attractions for maintaining high health and hygiene standards, setting a benchmark for other destinations to follow.
Addressing Environmental Issues Bali’s southern beaches, such as Kedonganan, Jimbaran, Kuta, and Legian, often suffer from seasonal plastic waste due to tides, with the problem worsening each year. In contrast, the beaches along the eastern and northern coasts, such as Candidasa, Amed, and Tulamben, remain largely free of this issue, offering cleaner and more peaceful environments for visitors. Through the Clean Tourism Movement, the government aims to reduce waste by promoting sustainable practices and waste management solutions in the affected areas.
