As of September 16, the Covid-19 Task Force updated Indonesia's risk zone map, showing that only one high-risk area (red zone) remains—Banda Aceh. This means there are no longer any red zones in Java and Bali. The news comes as a breath of fresh air for the tourism industry and local SMEs, especially in tourist destinations.

In the past two weekends, many tourist spots have seen a surge in domestic visitors, many of whom came from the Greater Jakarta area (Jabodetabek), where the majority of residents have been vaccinated. Strict health protocols and widespread vaccination remain the key to building immunity and restoring public confidence in travel.

In Yogyakarta, which recently had its PPKM level downgraded earlier this week, hotel booking ratios have already started to increase for both weekdays and weekends. Tourist areas like Malioboro and Parangtritis Beach are also seeing higher foot traffic. This is an encouraging sign, although it still requires readiness in infrastructure and strict adherence to health protocols.

As of September 15, Yogyakarta has achieved 71% first-dose vaccination coverage and 32.4% for the second dose, with a positivity rate of 3.53%. This reflects the commitment of both the government and the public to accelerate vaccination efforts and maintain compliance with restrictions that have been in place since the start of PPKM. Additionally, strengthening the PeduliLindungi digital system is vital, as it now serves as the sole access point for entering tourist areas and using public transport.

At the Global Tourism Forum 2021 held in Jakarta, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin stated that the Covid-19 pandemic poses a major challenge to the tourism sector, but there is hope for a swift recovery that can once again contribute significantly to national income. Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, also announced that Bali, Bintan, and Batam would serve as pilot areas for reopening international tourism.

As part of the recovery efforts, the Ministry of Law and Human Rights has issued Regulation No. 34 of 2021, concerning the issuance of visas and stay permits for foreign nationals—a promising step toward reviving Indonesia’s tourism industry.

“With the current progress in vaccination, disciplined health protocols, and stronger implementation of PeduliLindungi, we are optimistic that tourism will recover faster,” said AB Sadewa, Corporate Secretary of PT Panorama Sentrawisata Tbk. “By the end of 2021, we expect a significant rise in domestic tourist movements and a relaxation of quarantine requirements for international travelers who meet the criteria,” he added.