Indonesia bolsters Catholic tourism on Flores Island, eyes economic growth

By LiCAS News

This initiative aims to increase visitor numbers, promote economic growth, and preserve local culture through religious tourism.

In a report by The Jakarta Post, Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno emphasized the unique allure of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), particularly Flores Island.

He highlighted the island’s rich Catholic history and the harmonious inculturation between the Catholic Church and local culture as key attractions for religious tourists.

“Flores Island in NTT is renowned for its Catholic history and heritage. It’s often referred to as the Missionary Island. This island has tremendous potential for religious tourism, especially through the inculturation between the Catholic Church and the local community’s culture,” said Sandiaga.

He noted that this inculturation not only boosts religious pilgrimage tourism but also fosters economic growth and cultural preservation.

To support tourism development, the government has included four annual events in the 2024 National Events Calendar, two of which focus on religion and culture: the Golokoe Festival in Labuan Bajo and the Bale Nagi Festival in Larantuka.

These events, alongside regular Catholic religious and cultural festivals like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Lembah Kisol Festival, are expected to draw more tourists to the region.

Bishop Siprianus Hormat of Ruteng echoed this sentiment, stressing that tourism should be rooted in local culture and spirituality.

“Tourism is essentially a pilgrimage, tracing the footsteps of God in the joyous encounter of humanity and the universe. Therefore, the diocese of Ruteng has designed and continues to promote holistic tourism in the region known as Bumi Congka Sae [the great Manggarai Earth] Flores, characterized by spirituality,” he said.

The growth of religious tourism in Indonesia aligns with the government’s broader strategy to diversify tourism products and promote economic growth through pilgrimage activities.

These activities stimulate service sectors like hospitality, transportation, and local crafts, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire community.

The Semana Santa celebration in Larantuka is the largest Catholic religious event in Indonesia, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year. In 2024, the event saw 23,123 pilgrims, a significant increase from pre-pandemic numbers.

The development of Catholic religious tourism on Flores is rooted in the island’s history and heritage, with Catholic missionaries playing a crucial role in building educational foundations and fostering a quality workforce.

Martin Chen, director of the Pastoral Center of Ruteng Diocese, emphasized that the Church’s mission on Flores is humanitarian, focusing on education and health alongside spiritual enrichment.

The Directorate General of Catholic Community Guidance of the Ministry of Religious Affairs expressed its commitment to collaborate with the diocese to improve human resources and address challenges in the tourism sector.

The focus will be on enhancing attractions, accessibility, and amenities to make Flores a premier destination for Catholic religious tourism.

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