The 2024 Africa-Indonesia Forum in Bali brought together experts and officials to discuss various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, industry, and trade. Bali’s tourism industry took particular interest in the conservation tourism practices that have thrived in African countries.
Sandiaga Uno, Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, emphasized how these African nations have successfully blended their cultural heritage with tourism to promote conservation. He pointed out how Algeria, with its vast Roman ruins, and Tanzania, with wildlife tourism accounting for 30% of its economy, offer valuable examples.
Throughout the forum, comparisons were made between Bali and Zanzibar, a Tanzanian island known for its growing tourism sector. Though some participants mistakenly called Zanzibar a country, it shares similarities with Bali, such as the challenge of balancing tourism growth with environmental and cultural preservation.
Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Indonesia’s Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, praised Tanzania’s achievements in maritime tourism and its blue economy. He urged Bali to adopt similar strategies, suggesting that Bali and Tanzania could establish sister island connections and maritime tourism hubs to strengthen their relationship.
As a result of the forum, Bali and Zanzibar plan to collaborate on tourism initiatives focusing on conservation and sustainability. Zanzibar's new mandatory travel insurance requirement, starting in October 2024, may offer insights to Bali on managing uninsured tourists and emergency costs.
The discussions aim to promote sustainable, culturally sensitive tourism in Bali. The island faces the challenge of preserving its natural landscapes while offering high-end tourist experiences.
To support these efforts, Indonesian lawmakers are developing regulations to manage the conversion of agricultural and community land for tourism purposes. These new rules are intended to protect Bali’s natural beauty as its tourism industry continues to grow.
Impact on Bali’s Tourism and Real Estate Sectors
As Bali looks to African models of conservation tourism, its tourism and real estate markets are likely to see changes. A focus on eco-friendly and sustainable tourism could shift demand for accommodations, with more tourists seeking villas that embrace nature and sustainability.
Villas with eco-friendly features near conservation areas or natural landmarks may become more popular, attracting environmentally conscious visitors.
For those interested in purchasing property in Bali, the island’s conservation efforts could introduce new uncertainties in the real estate market. Stricter land-use regulations may limit development in areas once considered for commercial purposes. However, this could lead to new real estate projects that align with environmental sustainability, offering a balance between development and nature preservation.
With rising environmental awareness, both tourists and investors may seek properties that combine luxury with eco-friendly practices. This shift could increase the value of real estate in areas known for their dedication to conservation.
Bali’s alignment of tourism and real estate with conservation goals will enhance its reputation as a global destination. This will help preserve its natural attractions and benefit local communities for future generations.
Comments
Post a Comment