In 2024, Indonesia emerged as the largest contributor of tourists in Southeast Asia and the second-largest globally. One key indicator of this trend is the number of Indonesian tourists visiting Singapore, which reached 2.49 million throughout the year.
This figure represents an 8 percent increase from the previous year, when 2.3 million Indonesians traveled to the Lion City in 2023.
According to Tempo.Co, Mohamed Hafez Marican, Area Director of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) Indonesia, there are two main reasons why Indonesian tourists favor Singapore: culinary tourism and shopping tourism.
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Shopping Tourism is the Main Attraction
Singapore is widely regarded as a shopping paradise for Indonesian tourists. Beyond the well-known shopping district of Orchard Road, Indonesian visitors have started exploring other areas, such as Jurong in the west and Changi City Point in the east.
As reported by Tempo.Co, one of the main attractions for Indonesian tourists is the lower price of sneakers than Indonesia. This phenomenon has even surprised local Singaporeans, who have noticed the enthusiasm of Indonesian visitors in searching for more affordable goods.
Additionally, Singapore’s "retailtainment" concept serves as another appeal. The combination of shopping and entertainment—such as ice cream museums and chocolate-making workshops—enhances the shopping experience, making it more enjoyable and interactive for visitors.
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Diverse Culinary Experiences
Besides shopping, culinary tourism is another factor that draws Indonesian tourists to Singapore. The country offers a diverse range of food options, from iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa to an abundance of halal food readily available in various locations.
Mohamed Hafez highlighted that many tourists are unaware that Singapore has approximately 6,000 halal food outlets, providing convenience for Muslim travelers from Indonesia. Kampong Gelam remains a popular destination for Indonesian tourists seeking halal food and a rich Malay cultural atmosphere, as reported by Tempo.Co.
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Other Contributing Factors
According to VoA Indonesia, apart from shopping and culinary attractions, several other factors make Singapore a more appealing destination for Indonesian tourists compared to domestic locations:
1. Affordable Flight Tickets
Compared to domestic flights, airfare to Singapore is often more affordable, particularly for travelers from nearby cities like Pekanbaru.In some cases, the cost of traveling to Singapore can be lower than traveling to Jakarta or Bali, making it a more economical choice for many tourists.
2. Comprehensive Facilities and Infrastructure
Singapore is renowned for its excellent tourism infrastructure. With over 5,000 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues spread across key areas, visitors can enjoy a seamless and efficient travel experience.
3. Desire for Social Media Presence
In the digital age, many travelers seek to share their experiences on social media. Visiting an international destination such as Singapore adds prestige and value to one's image.
With numerous Instagrammable spots and unique experiences, Indonesian tourists frequently choose Singapore as a place to vacation while capturing memorable moments.
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Singapore: A Favorite Destination for Indonesian Tourists
Singapore has long been a preferred travel destination for Indonesians. With various advantages, including easy accessibility, an engaging shopping experience, and diverse culinary offerings, it is no surprise that the number of Indonesian visitors to this country continues to rise year after year.
Although Indonesia boasts many attractive tourist destinations, Singapore’s modern appeal, comprehensive facilities, and effortless access continue to position it as a top choice for many Indonesian travelers.
