Bintan Resorts has formed a new partnership with VFS Global to enhance its presence in the Indian travel market. This collaboration was formalized on August 29, 2024, at the Grand Lagoi Hotel in Bintan Resorts. The aim is to promote Bintan Island, located in the Riau Islands Province of Indonesia, as a top travel destination for Indian tourists.

Under this partnership, Bintan Resorts will leverage VFS Global’s extensive network across major and secondary cities in India, including its strong ties with businesses, media, and corporate entities. This move is expected to significantly boost tourism from India to Bintan Island.

Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer of Bintan Resorts, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are excited to partner with VFS Global to introduce the beauty and charm of Bintan Island to the Indian market. This collaboration will elevate Bintan’s status as a must-visit destination for Indian tourists. We eagerly look forward to welcoming more visitors from India and offering them the exceptional experiences that only Bintan Island can provide.”

The partnership will launch a targeted marketing campaign in major Indian cities, aiming to position Bintan as a premier travel destination alongside Singapore. The campaign will include a dual-destination strategy, showcasing Bintan’s unique attractions such as family-friendly vacations, adventurous activities, and culinary experiences.

Promotional efforts will focus on digital and social media platforms, collaborating with influencers and organizing workshops and familiarization trips. The goal is to work closely with travel trade partners to enhance Bintan Island’s visibility and attract a significant number of tourists from India.

G B Srithar, Head of Tourism Services at VFS Global, highlighted the potential of the Indian market, noting, “Together, we will work towards increasing the Indian tourist arrivals to Bintan Island and enriching their overall travel experience. Our immediate priority is to re-introduce Bintan’s offerings to the Indian audience and showcase the convenience of reaching the island from Singapore.”

The dual-destination approach aims to capitalize on the appeal of both Bintan and Singapore, with a focus on attracting a double-digit share of Indian visitors. The signing ceremony was attended by key stakeholders from Indonesia’s tourism sector, including Ni Made Ayu Marthini, Deputy Minister for Marketing, Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, and other notable figures.