There were some good points in the letter titled "Sell Indonesia's uniqueness!" (The Jakarta Post, April 13).

I live in Jakarta, but, to be honest, the problems in Jakarta are so great that you don't even know where to start (proved by the inability of Jakarta's administration to deal with the mess). In terms of tourism, I agree that Indonesia has to sell their uniqueness. So protecting the environment is a must!

If the Indonesian tourism department insists that Jakarta should be sold as a tourism destination, then they have to sell it to tourists who are not from developed countries (for example, you could create city break packages for tourists from ASEAN countries or even India). These tourists will suffer less culture shock when they come to Jakarta. Most Europeans are not like me, who is brave and crazy enough to walk around in a city like Jakarta.

Actually, if Indonesia wants to promote its cities, there are other cities in Indonesia that are more unique and interesting than Jakarta.

First, Padang, a city tourism package which includes Maninjau and Bukittinggi, would be successful if professionally managed. But don't be overambitious! First, you have to target Malaysian tourists. They would love this place as, culturally speaking, this area is very "Malay".

Second, Pekanbaru - even though it is small, it is carefully managed and surprisingly clean. I would not be at all surprised if Pekanbaru becomes a very well-organized city within the next five years.

Third, Palembang and Banjarmasin have to make more use of their river. Look at cities on rivers across the world and don't be afraid to learn from them. Palembang has great potential if they professionally manage the riverside areas.

Fourth, Manado, a city and diving package could be combined. You could easily target the European market for this destination, as the people there are very tolerant and friendly.

Fifth, Makassar has great potential to be a better city than Jakarta, as long as they learn from the mistakes made in Jakarta. They need to improve the infrastructure and public transportation systems. Moreover, it is relatively close to places rich in culture, like Toraja.

Helena van der Winden

Jakarta

Popular

Why Indonesia must write ASEAN’s green rules

Freeport Indonesia pushes back full copper mine restart

Growth without gain: Why Indonesians don't feel the economy