Indonesia is making significant strides in promoting Catholic tourism on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), with an eye on both economic growth and cultural preservation. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, aims to increase visitor numbers and foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
The island’s rich Catholic history and the harmonious inculturation between the Catholic Church and local culture are key attractions for religious tourists. Flores Island, often referred to as the “Missionary Island,” is renowned for its deep Catholic roots, evident in its historical ties and the integration of the Church with local customs. This harmonious blend of spirituality and culture draws tourists seeking a unique blend of religious and cultural experiences.
To support tourism development, the government has included four annual events in the 2024 National Events Calendar, two of which focus on religion and culture: the Golokoe Festival in Labuan Bajo and the Bale Nagi Festival in Larantuka. These events, alongside regular Catholic religious and cultural festivals like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Lembah Kisol Festival, are expected to attract more tourists to the region.
The Semana Santa celebration in Larantuka, the largest Catholic religious event in Indonesia, draws thousands of pilgrims annually. In 2024, the event saw 23,123 pilgrims, a significant increase from pre-pandemic numbers, highlighting the growing interest in religious tourism and its potential for economic benefits.
The growth of religious tourism in Indonesia aligns with the government’s broader strategy to diversify tourism products and promote economic growth through pilgrimage activities. These activities stimulate service sectors like hospitality, transportation, and local crafts, creating a positive ripple effect that benefits the entire community.
The development of Catholic religious tourism on Flores is deeply rooted in the island’s history and heritage. Catholic missionaries have played a crucial role in building educational foundations and fostering a quality workforce on the island. This historical connection is now being leveraged to boost tourism and economic growth.
The Directorate General of Catholic Community Guidance of the Ministry of Religious Affairs has expressed its commitment to collaborating with the diocese to improve human resources and address challenges in the tourism sector. The focus will be on enhancing attractions, accessibility, and amenities to make Flores a premier destination for Catholic religious tourism.
To bolster these efforts, the Indonesian government is investing in infrastructure and promotional activities to support tourism development. The inclusion of key festivals in the national calendar is part of a broader strategy to attract international tourists and showcase Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.
The growth of religious tourism in Flores is expected to create a ripple effect, stimulating various sectors of the economy. Hospitality, transportation, and local crafts are among the industries that will benefit from increased tourist arrivals. This holistic development approach ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are widely distributed, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
Indonesia’s initiative to bolster Catholic tourism on Flores Island represents a strategic move to harness the island’s rich religious and cultural heritage for economic growth and cultural preservation. By promoting religious tourism, the government aims to attract more visitors, stimulate economic development, and preserve the unique cultural identity of Flores.
As the global interest in cultural and religious tourism continues to grow, Flores Island is poised to become a premier destination for tourists seeking a blend of spiritual enrichment and cultural immersion. The government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, promoting key events, and supporting local communities underscores the potential for sustainable tourism development in East Nusa Tenggara. The collaboration between the government, the Catholic Church, and local communities ensures a comprehensive approach to tourism development, creating a model for other regions to follow. As Flores Island continues to attract more tourists, it will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Indonesia’s tourism industry, contributing to economic growth and cultural preservation.
