It’s one of our favourite travel destinations, but the imminent execution of two Australians may impact tourism to Indonesia, according to Julie Bishop.
Bishop, Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, said Australians may reconsider travel plans to Indonesia, particularly Bali, if two convicted drug couriers currently on death row are executed.
The statement was made as Indonesian authorities finalise plans to move Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran from Bali to a prison island off Java where they will face the firing squad, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
Although a date for the transfer is yet to be confirmed, Bishop warned Australians may boycott the destination as protest.
“I think the Australian people will demonstrate their deep disapproval of this action, by making decisions about where they wish to holiday.”
Julie Bishop, Foreign Affairs Minister
A boycott from Australians to Indonesia would impact on local tourism, as currently Aussies are the country’s fourth largest international market, following Singapore, Malaysia and China.
In 2012, 961,595 Australians visited Indonesia. A rise from 771,792 in 2010.
So far, the Australian public has had varied responses to the situation, with some still keen on their upcoming holidays, while others turn away from the destination.
Twitter user Misha Sim said boycotting the destination would only hurt locals who rely on tourism for survival, while Sue quite clearly stressed her refusal to visit the destination.
No mercy, No tourism! #Bali #Indonesia
— Sue (@sooby_dooby) February 13, 2015
Another Twitter user pointed out that the Indonesian government may already be aware of its impact to tourism, which could be why they’re transferring the men to another island.
@theage Don’t forget Indonesian Gvt did not want executions in Bali as bad for tourism. Modern 24 hr “death march” to take them to be shot. — Maria Cunningham (@milko_plus) February 13, 2015
While a third user called for the Prime Minister to ban the destination all together.
@mmmhotbreakfast @TonyAbbottMHR this is your moment to stand up Tony. Pull the relief aid and ban tourism to Bali #boycottbali
— Wackman (@Wackman32) February 15, 2015
Then there are users like Kevin Poller who ask the big question – will calls for a ban and the execution actually have any impact on tourism to the destination?
wonder how many people who signed petition for Bali boys will be going to Bali in next 2 years
— kevin poller (@pollerkm) February 15, 2015
Based on previous incidents, it’s unlikely to impact tourism. Take a look at Schapelle Corby’s nine years in an Indonesian prison, which did little to deter Aussies from visiting the country nor did Channel 7’s documentary series ‘What Really Happens in Bali’.
