Indonesians optimistic over C&I development - Sep 01

By Stephanie Roberts JAKARTA Indonesia's convention industry is confident President Megawati's appointment will signal an upturn in conference and incentive (C&I) business. "We believe the new government will have a positive impact on the development of Indonesian tourism and will restore the confidence of the international market," Indonesian Congress and Convention Association chairman Mr Iqbal Alan Abdullah said. Mr Iqbal met with Indonesia's state minister of culture and tourism Mr I Gede Ardhika to discuss how the industry can encourage corporates to use the destination. "Under the new leadership, we will promote convention business and tourism more strongly and the private sectors and government will work together to promote Indonesia as the business and leisure destination," Mr Iqbal added. Balai Sidang Jakarta Convention Center general manager Mr Friedrich Kurze agreed a more stable image for the country was essential for increasing business. "A much needed peace has returned to Jakarta, and also strong gains in the rupiah since the establishment of the new president and her cabinet," Mr Kurze said. "I am also sure many countries have learned, unfortunately mostly from negative reporting, what a huge market potential there is in Jakarta and all Indonesia." However, event organiser MCI International's managing director Mr Peter Gray remains uncertain whether political stability alone will entice clients to Indonesia. "It's rarely requested by our clients and I don't see the new 'peace' as a reason for people to suddenly start wanting to go there when they didn't in the past," he said. "It will not be our first recommendation for groups - not because of the change in political climate but just because it never has been."