Garuda Indonesia criticized for lack of Indonesian cuisine in Business Class

Management expert and University of Indonesia professor Rhenald Kasali has criticized Garuda Indonesia for the lack of authentic Indonesian cuisine in its Business Class menu. During a flight from Narita, Japan, to Denpasar, Bali, on October 21, 2026, Kasali noted that the meal selection favored international dishes over domestic specialties.

While acknowledging the presence of Japanese cuisine as understandable given the departure point, Kasali questioned the absence of regional Indonesian dishes such as Balinese ayam betutu, Acehnese ayam tangkap, or sei sapi. He argued that as the national carrier, Garuda Indonesia has a responsibility to use in-flight catering as a tool for cultural promotion and tourism marketing.

Kasali emphasized that culinary offerings serve as an extension of national identity and a preliminary tourism experience for travelers. Despite the critique of the menu, he offered positive feedback regarding the airline's service standards and cabin cleanliness.