Hardini, in a statement here on Sunday, noted that pressure on the rupiah exchange rate due to global economic tensions and international tariff policies has a direct impact on the community, especially those who travel abroad a lot.
"This is a sign that domestic tourism must be a priority, not only as an alternative but as a main choice," she remarked.
She further said that the government must see the policy as a momentum to strengthen fiscal policies, providing incentives for local destination development, as well as maintaining investors' trust in tourism.
The legislator also underscored the need for collaboration in providing access to affordable transportation, large-scale tourism promotion, and creating quality and competitive experiences from domestic tourism.
She assessed that tourism can no longer be considered a complementary sector.
She also highlighted the importance of maintaining the resilience, inclusivity, and competitiveness of tourism.
"Trump's policy can be a motivation for a change in direction if we can seize opportunities amid a crisis," she remarked.
President Trump on Wednesday announced "reciprocal" tariffs on a number of countries, including Indonesia, which is slapped with a 32 percent import tariff.
Indonesia was not the only Southeast Asian country hit by the tariff; fellow ASEAN members Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia received 49, 46, 36, and 24 percent tariffs, respectively.
The Trump administration has also imposed a 10 percent baseline tariff on imports from all countries.
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Translator: Benardy Ferdiansyah, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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