Jakarta. Indonesia is eyeing to beef up its cooperation with New Zealand as Jakarta wishes to learn more about how the latter builds a “perfectly integrated” tourism and creative industries. 

New Zealand has gained massive popularity as a tourist destination after it became the filming location for the critically acclaimed "The Lord of the Rings”. The fantasy trilogy was reportedly shot in over 150 real locations in New Zealand. The country is even offering tour packages for people to see “Middle-Earth” --the fictional world where “The Lord of the Rings” takes place-- in person. As Indonesia seeks to welcome millions of foreign tourists this year, Jakarta looks to work with New Zealand.

Deputy Tourism Minister Angela Tanosoedibjo proposed the partnership during a reception dinner hosted by New Zealand’s Ambassador to Indonesia Kevin Burnett in Jakarta on Friday. 

“Let’s reaffirm our commitment to deepening ties between the two nations in many sectors, including tourism and creative economy. These two sectors have become major economic drivers globally, and play essential roles in nurturing culture and achieving sustainable development goals,” Angela said. 

“I have often mentioned New Zealand as an example of a place where the creative industry and the tourism sector are integrated perfectly. One of the most outstanding cinematic achievements of all time --’ The Lord of the Rings’-- was filmed in New Zealand and attracts travelers globally,” Angela added. 

Indonesia is planning to welcome 17 million foreign tourists throughout 2024. According to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), the country has attracted almost 4.1 million foreign tourists so far this year as of April. This means that Indonesia has yet to pass the halfway mark for its foreign tourist target. In April alone, almost 1.1 million foreign tourists visited Indonesia, about 16 percent of them came from neighboring Malaysia.