Java Eyes to Lure Halal Travelers

Bandung, the capital city of the West Java Province of Indonesia, is eyeing Muslim visitors with a halal tourism concept. “Halal tourism is a concept of tourism that aims to meet the needs of Muslim visitors during their vacation,” said Bandung Culture and Tourism Agency head Dewi Kenny Kaniasari on Monday, the Jakarta Post reported. Kenny added that the city’s administration was seeking to attract at least five million tourists by 2019 following the implementation of the halal tourism program. “Bandung already has the three As to offer in halal tourism: attractions like the angklung show routinely held in Saung Angklung Udjo; accessibility, as it can be reached by plane, train and car; and amenities, as it offers various options of accommodation, restaurants and shopping spots,” said Kenny, stressing that the agency would also prioritize halal-certified eateries, fashion hotspots and prayer rooms. The administration plans to establish a dedicated team to push for fast implementation of the program. Based on the agency’s data, the city welcomed 6.96 million visitors in 2017 and is targeting to increase that number by at least 10% this year.