On February 5, 2026, Indonesia and South Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Jakarta, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and fostering growth within the tourism sector. The agreement, spearheaded by Indonesian Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana and South African Tourism Minister Patricia De Lille, outlines cooperation across seven key areas.
Strategic Areas of Cooperation
The MoU focuses on collaboration in sustainable tourism, human resource development, marketing and promotion, tourism investment, safety and service standards, research and development, and other tourism sector initiatives. These areas are intended to promote sustainable tourism development based on equality and mutual benefit.
Enhancing Connectivity and Visitor Flow
A central goal of the MoU is to improve connectivity between Indonesia and South Africa. Ministers emphasized the importance of visa facilitation, joint promotional efforts, and the establishment of direct flights to increase tourism in both directions. Minister De Lille specifically requested more direct flights to simplify travel for both leisure and business travelers.
A Focus on Sustainable Practices
The MoU places significant emphasis on sustainable tourism, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental preservation and support for local communities. Both Indonesia and South Africa hope to grow leaders in eco-tourism within their respective regions.
Economic and Cultural Exchange
Joint tourism promotions and cultural exchanges are expected to attract international visitors to both countries, showcasing their unique cultural heritage and natural landmarks. This partnership could diversify tourism offerings, creating opportunities in adventure and cultural tourism, and boosting related industries like hospitality and transportation.
Potential for Regional Collaboration
The Indonesia-South Africa tourism MoU could serve as a model for future collaboration between Asia and Africa, leveraging the unique cultural assets of both continents to create a more resilient tourism sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the MoU?
The main goal of the MoU is to strengthen the relationship between Indonesia and South Africa and to promote growth in the tourism sector through cooperation in seven strategic areas.
How many tourists traveled between the two countries in 2025?
In 2025, 36,548 South African visitors traveled to Indonesia, while approximately 3,000 Indonesians visited South Africa.
What are the seven areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU?
The seven areas of cooperation are sustainable tourism, human resource development, marketing and promotion, tourism investment, safety and service standards, research and development, and other tourism sector initiatives.
Will this agreement lead to a significant increase in tourism between Indonesia and South Africa, and what impact might that have on their respective economies?
