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Jogja Tourism Festival (JTF) 2019 was the evidence of the commitment of five Penta-helix elements in recognizing sustainable tourism in Jogjakarta. JTF main event was attended by 30 agencies representing five Penta-helix elements; government, academics, business people, communities, and media celebrating World Tourism Day, 27 September 2019

JTF 2019 was completed by a joint pledge to declare Jogjakarta as Sustainable Tourism Destination. Each representative carried a cup of soil taken from five districts; Kulonprogo, Gunung Kidul, Bantul, Sleman and Jogjakarta which were then put together into big pottery to symbolize fusion and unity.

There were some important points in the declaration to highlight: 1. Each penta-helix element realized that tourism has a potential role as a locomotive in economic and social development. 2. Reconfirm the strong will to increase and develop the cooperation amongst the Pentahelix element. 3. Cooperation amongst the Penta-helix element is guided by the basic principles of development supported and based on objectives to develop tourism in Jogjakarta.

“The soil brought by each representative is put together in big pottery. This symbolizes fusion, that we all together will develop Jogjakarta tourism. Our egos should be removed because they should be united into one,” said the head of committee JTF 2019, Muhammad Adlid Haq or often called as Willy.

The main purpose of the joint declaration is reaffirmed Penta-helix synergy and commitment in developing and promoting sustainable tourism, and creating Jogjakarta Special Region as one leading tourism destination in Southeast Asia in 2025.

“In this JTF, we want to build up an ecosystem. All the elements we called Penta-helix will collaborate in this joint experiment room to develop tourism in Jogjakarta. Hope that this ecosystem could bring benefits.”

Willy added that JTF 2019 became the one and only tourism festival in Indonesia and one of two festivals in Southeast Asia recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

Head of Yoyakarta Tourism Office, Singgih Raharjo represented Jogjakarta Special Region Governor said that the government appreciated JTF 2019 which involved Penta-helix and became one of the many events recognized by UNWTO.

“I convey my appreciation, thank you and appreciate all elements who have supported and participated in the JTF and for tourism development in Yogyakarta. This is an effort to boost Jogja as a leading destination in Southeast Asia in 2025. Let’s collaborate and work together to create sustainable events like this since it will develop tourism in Jogjakarta, so it will provide more benefits, “he said

During this World Tourism Day, there were series of events that took place from 15:00 until 22:00. Visitors took part in the Sand Dunes Clean Up Join Act to clean up litter around the Sand Dunes. They also enjoyed spectacular sunset experience. Various food and beverages stalls providing local foods, traditional handicrafts and more also became the highlight of the event.

Some photographers joint Photo Model Contest at sunset. Last but not least, the Symphony Orchestra entertained the visitors at night. The lucky visitors won some door prizes provided by the sponsors.