Jakarta (ANTARA) – Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto underscored that Indonesia needs to immediately reform the tourism sector to mitigate the impacts of global crises, particularly the Middle East tensions.He noted that the tourism sector is currently experiencing pressure as global connectivity has been disrupted by the conflict.”Indonesia needs to immediately carry out a reform to mitigate losses from global crises and build a foundation for robust and globally competitive tourism and destinations,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.The Ministry of Tourism projected a potential loss of approximately 5,500 foreign tourists and a potential foreign exchange loss of Rp184.8 billion (approximately US$10.8 million) per day if Indonesia does not take mitigation measures immediately.Meanwhile, an InJourney Airports report from late February to March 10, 2026, recorded disruptions across nine international routes at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport, affecting 47,012 passengers.The challenges are further compounded by rising aviation fuel prices.Hartarto emphasized that the tourism sector remains a key focus, given its significant contribution to the national economy.In 2025, the sector contributed Rp945.7 trillion, equivalent to 3.97 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).Additionally, foreign tourist arrivals reached 15.39 million, growing 10.7 percent year-on-year (yoy). In terms of foreign exchange, the sector generated US$18.91 billion and supported 25.91 million jobs.In the statement, the minister also outlined several strategic steps the government can take to maintain the competitiveness of Indonesia's tourism, including expanding the visa-free entry policy.According to a study by the World Travel and Tourism Council, the visa-free policy for 169 countries implemented since 2015 has driven tourist growth by up to 15 percent annually and created approximately 400,000 new jobs in the tourism sector.For the expansion, the Ministry of Tourism has identified 20 countries as potential targets.Furthermore, it is also deemed essential for the government to strengthen the domestic market by leveraging the Eid al-Fitr holiday season. This strategy can be implemented through micro-tourism—developing destinations within driving distance that offer more immersive travel experiences.The government has also prepared several incentives, such as transportation discounts during this year's Eid period and the work-from-anywhere policy, to encourage domestic tourist trips.Other proposed measures include negotiating the opening of new international routes, strengthening Indonesia's branding as a safe and stable destination, and promoting destinations for digital nomads.”Marketing that highlights Indonesia as an affordable high-end destination needs to be strengthened,” he added.Concluding his statement, Minister Hartarto stressed the importance of collaboration and synergy between stakeholders to maintain the resilience of Indonesia's tourism ecosystem amid the global dynamics.