Indonesia boosts sports tourism, promotes “geoeconomy”

Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana recently said that the running series is not only a sporting event but also a means of promoting geological heritage, fostering sustainable tourism, and creating additional livelihoods for local communities.

Indonesian Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana (centre) at a press conference in Jakarta on May 22. (Photo: Antara)
Indonesian Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana (centre) at a press conference in Jakarta on May 22. (Photo: Antara)

Jakarta (VNA) – Indonesia is accelerating its strategy to develop sports tourism as a new driver of economic growth and national image promotion through the “Geopark Run Series 2026-2027”, which will take place in four of the country's leading geoparks.

Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana recently said that the running series is not only a sporting event but also a means of promoting geological heritage, fostering sustainable tourism, and creating additional livelihoods for local communities.

According to the minister, Indonesia is moving towards a model of “experiential tourism” linked to nature, health and local culture, amid a global tourism trend that increasingly prioritises outdoor activities and green destinations.

​The Geopark Run Series is scheduled to take place from August 2026 to April 2027 in the Ijen, Minang, Ciletuh and Belitong geopark areas, all recognised as UNESCO Global Geoparks by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

The programme aims to attract at least 10,000 athletes and tourists, thereby stimulating demand for accommodation, services, transport, food and consumer goods in the host areas./.

VNA

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