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DEPUTY Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa stated that Indonesia’s wellness tourism offerings are vast, ranging from traditional herbal drinks like *jamu* to unique massage techniques that vary by region.
“There is no need to ask what we might be missing in Indonesia; wellness is deeply rooted in our daily lives,” said Ni Luh during a visit to the Antara Heritage Center (AHC) in Jakarta on Tuesday (10/29), 2026.
Ni Luh noted that, since ancient times, the Indonesian people have been creative in developing practices that are both beneficial and healthy for the body. Wellness tourism encompasses not only the physical body but also the mind and soul, extending even to the food we consume.
Each element carries its own meaning and philosophy. As an example, in the realm of culinary wellness, visitors can experience local traditions by sampling *jamu*—a herbal tonic originating from Java.
Made from indigenous Indonesian spices, jamu is believed to boost immunity and overall physical well-being. A similar beverage, known as loloh—crafted from natural herbs—can also be found in Bali.
Regarding massage, Indonesia possesses a variety of traditional spa practices passed down through generations, dating back to the era of the archipelago’s ancient kingdoms. These treatments typically incorporate aromatherapy oils infused with scents characteristic of the specific region.
“Our ancestors established a tradition of massage; today, Balinese and Javanese massages are recognized worldwide. I believe this is a strength we should further bolster on the global stage—to showcase just how rich Indonesia truly is,” Ni Luh remarked.
She added that the modern wellness tourism ecosystem has expanded even further, now incorporating various forms of exercise that blend physical activity with meditation or relaxation, such as yoga and Pilates.
Ni Luh also noted that the Ministry of Tourism has recognized the significant potential for a broad economic impact, leading them to prioritize three key areas—gastronomy tourism, marine tourism, and culinary experiences—as part of their strategy to develop high-quality, sustainable tourism.
The Ministry of Tourism has even collaborated with various industry stakeholders to host signature events, such as “Wonderful Indonesia Wellness” (WIW) and “Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy” (WIG), designed to showcase Indonesia’s wellness and culinary attractions to both international and domestic travelers.
She explained that this potential has grown even further in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism trends have shifted; where travelers once preferred visiting destinations in large groups, they now seek more personal and meaningful experiences.
As an example, she pointed out that while travelers previously often looked for themed hotels, they now tend to favor villas that offer a tranquil atmosphere and greater privacy.
“In the past, many tourists gravitated toward bustling cities, but now they are increasingly seeking connections with nature and the local community—experiences that truly bring them a sense of peace. This shift has become a driving force behind the overall change in the direction of our tourism sector,” she concluded. [antaranews/photo special]
