Indonesia posts highest foreign tourist growth in Southeast Asia

Indonesia achieved the highest growth in foreign tourist arrivals in Southeast Asia in March 2026, a significant increase of 10.50%. This surge, announced by Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana at the Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2026, offers a hopeful outlook for the nation's tourism sector.

While Indonesia still trails behind Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore in overall visitor numbers, its recent growth rate surpasses that of its neighbors, which ranged between 2% and 10%. "For last March, Indonesia's arrivals increased the highest compared to Thailand and Malaysia, so it was number one in terms of growth," Minister Widiyanti stated.

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For last March, Indonesia's arrivals increased the highest compared to Thailand and Malaysia, so it was number one in terms of growth.

In response to global shifts, including the conflict in the Middle East, Indonesia's tourism strategy is adapting. The ministry is redirecting its promotional efforts from European and Middle Eastern markets towards Asian countries such as Southeast Asia, East Asia, Oceania, and India. "We are intensifying our promotions so that we also enjoy growth from these tourists," she added.

The government is also working to improve travel accessibility by establishing new flight routes in collaboration with airlines. Partnerships with the Ministry of Transportation aim to provide incentives for reduced ticket prices. The BBTF 2026 exhibition is expected to further boost potential arrivals through international travel partnerships.

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We are intensifying our promotions so that we also enjoy growth from these tourists.