Surabaya, en.SERU.co.id – The tourism sector in East Java is beginning to feel the indirect fallout from escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The Regional Leadership Council of the Indonesian Tour Guides Association (DPD HPI Jawa Timur) has reported a wave of order cancellations from foreign tourists, particularly those from Europe, who had planned visits to several flagship destinations in the province.
DPD HPI East Java Chairman Sujai Asmed explained that the situation stems from a domino effect caused by disruptions to international flight routes.
“Several international airlines have canceled flights to Bali. As Bali serves as the main entry point, tourists intending to continue their journeys to East Java have ultimately canceled their visits,” he stated in a written release issued during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to HPI East Java’s analysis, three primary factors are currently pressuring the tourism industry:
- Disrupted routes and rising logistics costs — Conflict involving Middle Eastern airspace has forced airlines to take longer alternative paths, leading to significant increases in airfares.
- Travel advisories from major countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, which are creating hesitation among long-haul travelers, including those heading to Southeast Asia.
- Global economic pressures — Political instability has driven fluctuations in world crude oil prices, contributing to worldwide inflation and reducing international tourists’ purchasing power and willingness to travel.
Despite these challenges, HPI East Java identifies opportunities for mitigation. Indonesia, including East Java, is viewed as a relatively stable and safe political destination compared to conflict zones.
“We must highlight Indonesia’s image as a Safe Destination. Promotional efforts should temporarily shift toward more stable markets such as ASEAN countries, Australia, China, and East Asia,” Sujai added.
He also emphasized strengthening domestic tourism as a key strategy to sustain tour guides’ livelihoods. By maximizing inter-provincial traveler movement, reliance on the currently volatile European market can be reduced.
Amid the uncertainty, DPD HPI East Java is calling on all members to remain united and adaptable. The spirit of “HPI Jaya, Bersatu Untuk Maju” (HPI Victorious, United for Progress) is expected to drive innovation in packaging appealing tour packages for local and regional markets.
Concluding his statement, Sujai expressed hope for a swift de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East to restore normal global tourism flows.
“In this month of Ramadan filled with forgiveness, our prayers are for world peace so that the tourism industry, which has only recently recovered, does not fall back into decline,” he said. (dik/ono)
