Indonesia tourism officials tout weak rupiah as draw for visitors

Indonesia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, said the recent weakening of the rupiah against the U.S. dollar creates a competitive advantage for the country’s tourism sector. She explained that a cheaper currency encourages tourists to choose Indonesia, extend their stays and consider short‑ and medium‑distance flights, offsetting declines from European, American and Middle‑East markets.

The ministry is intensifying promotion efforts, launching sales missions and participating in travel exhibitions such as the Bali & Beyond Travel Fair 2026. In celebration of Jakarta’s 499th anniversary, free entry to Ancol park will be offered from 8 June, part of a broader push to attract more foreign visitors despite geopolitical tensions that have raised costs for Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages.