Experiencing a Decrease of Up to 30 Percent, Batu City Tourism Business Begins to Feel the Impact of the Corona Issue

Kapanlagi.com - The tourism business in Batu City has begun to feel the impact of the spread of the Corona virus. The tourism business, especially hotels and restaurants, is estimated to experience a decrease of 20 to 30 percent in the same month last year.

"We haven't made a specific calculation, but from our conversations with hotel managers who are members of PHRI, some say the range is up to 20 to 30 percent compared to the same month last year," said Sujud Hariadi, Chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) in Selecta Tourism Area, Batu City, on Thursday (12/3).

In January, the decline was not felt, but as soon as February came, it started to be felt until now. The number of tourists has decreased, both those staying in hotels, eating in restaurants, and visiting tourist attractions for recreation.

"So in February last year compared to 2020, there was a decrease of 20 to 30 percent," he added.

1. Affected by Continuing Effects

According to Sujud, the city of Batu is affected by continuing effects, not direct effects like what Bali is experiencing, which relies on foreign tourists. The city of Batu itself has relied on domestic tourists and a small number of foreign tourists.

"But whatever happens, it still has an impact because some people have avoided large crowds and unnecessary travel. It's part of the campaign," said Sujud.

The city of Batu receives around 7 million tourists per year, averaging around 500 thousand per month. The estimation is that around 100 thousand tourists enter the city of Batu per week.

"Okay, usually February is low, the current estimation is around 70 to 80 thousand. It seems there won't be that many anymore. The decline is felt on weekends, which have been the mainstay," he said.

2. Lower than the Previous Year

© KapanLagi.com/Darmadi Sasongko

The current condition, even on weekends, is lower than the previous year, but for weekdays it is relatively stable compared to last year.

This condition is recognized as an international issue and Indonesia is grateful that it is not as bad as some other countries. This also includes what is felt in Bali.

We are avoiding situations like employees being laid off. We are reducing unnecessary expenses and hoping that the local government can assure domestic tourists that Batu is safe to visit.

3. Issue Guidelines and Instructions from PHRI

© KapanLagi.com/Darmadi Sasongko

A total of 80 hotels in Batu are members of PHRI. This number does not include homestays and others. PHRI itself has issued guidelines and instructions from the central PHRI, as well as the government's efforts to prevent the corona virus. Hotels are asked to provide hand sanitizers and thermal detectors.

Sujud, who is also the Director of Hotel and Wisata Selecta, admitted to distributing dozens of hand sanitizers at 50 points in the tourist area. However, there is difficulty in providing thermal detectors because the items are not available in the market.

(kpl/dar/nda)