THE RESULTS of the PwC audit service study show that the Traveloka travel platform has helped boost the economy and tourism industry in Indonesia, especially after the pandemic.
According to PwC Indonesia Director Julian Smith said this study revealed the ripple effect or large impact created by Traveloka on various sectors in Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
“The results of this study illustrate the symbiotic relationship between Traveloka and the economy, and encourage growth and innovation in a period where resilience and adaptability are very important,” said Julian at the Traveloka Impact Study media briefing in Jakarta, Thursday (9/21), 2023.
The results of the PwC study also concluded that Traveloka helped stimulate the creation of Gross Added Value (NTB) in Indonesia of around US$10 billion (IDR153.8 trillion) in 2019-2022 or the equivalent of more than 360 thousand workers in Indonesia every year. Of this value, US$4.5 billion (IDR69 trillion) came from the tourism industry, or the equivalent of 2.7% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from this sector.
Traveloka also has a significant positive impact on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), where 91% of partners surveyed, including MSMEs, said that Traveloka helped them expand their consumer reach, and 75% of them said that their income had increased significantly thanks to Traveloka’s programs.
The EPIC Sale and Live Streams programs are examples of initiatives carried out by Traveloka to encourage the growth of partner businesses and MSMEs. In terms of cultural promotion and increasing domestic tourism, the PwC survey shows that 86% of businesses are supported by Traveloka in promoting their products and services, expanding market reach, and supporting local tourism through digital access.
Opportunities to visit rarely visited destinations will also increase by 67% post-pandemic in 2023. This is in line with the fact that 86% of businesses surveyed acknowledged Traveloka’s support in promoting their products and services, expanding market reach, and supporting local tourism through access. digital.
Regarding post-pandemic travel habits, Traveloka has observed changes in the way Indonesians enjoy travel, from previously preferring travel in large groups, to now preferring travel experiences in smaller groups.
There has also been an increase in the number of female tourists, similar to the hidden gem travel demand occurring around the world, as well as an increase in the number of Gen Z travelers who are enjoying post-pandemic freedom and also getting inspiration from social media.
Based on an internal survey of Traveloka users regarding sustainability products, it was found that 88% of users surveyed in Indonesia appreciated the option to offset their carbon footprint when booking flights on the Traveloka application.
Additionally, 80% of respondents said they would be more likely to choose accommodation that implements sustainable practices. Therefore, Traveloka includes a filtering option labeled “Sustainable Tourism” in its application which is certified by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
Meanwhile Traveloka President Caesar Indra said Traveloka will continue to innovate to serve the Indonesian people and have an impact on the domestic market – therefore, the company is focused on providing growth for the Indonesian travel and tourism ecosystem, encouraging innovation and human resources throughout the country.
In all countries where Traveloka operates, sustainable technology development, community development, and developing the travel and tourism industry for a more environmentally friendly future are Traveloka’s foremost focuses.
“We are dedicated to taking an important role in shaping the future of the tourism industry, both for our consumers and the wider community. With the various efforts we make to make a positive impact, we hope to enter a future full of continuous innovation, and endless possibilitie ,” finished Caesar. [sources/photo special]