Marie said that in 2011 Indonesia placed at the 74th rank in world for tourism, the rank continues to step up four positions to the 70th in 2012, according to WEF.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Indonesia`s natural beauty is ranked sixth in the world based on a survey of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 2012 which was released recently, said Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Menparekraf) Mari Elka Pangestu.

"This year`s tourism ranking is up four positions based on the WEF survey," said Mari Elka Pangestu here Monday.

Marie said that in 2011 Indonesia placed at the 74th rank in world for tourism, the rank continues to step up four positions to the 70th in 2012, according to WEF.

"The proudest thing is that Indonesia was ranked sixth for its natural beauty," he said.

According to Marie that this might become a strong base to develop tourism because everyone knows that the most beautiful beach and ocean in the world is in Indonesia.

"Some time ago we managed to amaze visitors 2013 ITB Berlin (Internationale Tourismus-Borse Berlin) by featuring the replica of Phinisi ship as an attraction and an icon of Indonesian Pavilion," she said.

It was a form of tourism and creative economy that gives positive impact to boost the pride of Indonesia as a nation that has had a maritime tradition and history dating back thousands of years ago.

The ministry is committed to develop seven thematic tours (special interest) and three of which are strongly associated with the beach and sea (nature tourism and ecotourism, sports tourism and recreation, and sightseeing cruises).

"However, this thematic tourism development requires the support of cooperation with other ministries and local governments," she said.

The optimal thematic tourism development is expected to boost Indonesia`s tourism ranks in the coming years.(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2013