The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (MOTCE) for the Republic of Indonesia has launched a brand new tourism website dedicated to the UK market. The new site is Indonesia’s first official destination site in the UK and reflects MOTCE’s commitment to its largest European source market and the potential it sees for growth from the UK to Indonesia with its many attractive destinations.

Mari Elka Pangestu, minister of tourism & creative economy, Indonesia, speaks to Breaking Travel News at the World Travel & Tourism Council Asia Summit in Seoul, South Korea.

Officials at the ministry of tourism and creative economy in Indonesia have appointed Hume Whitehead as its representation office in the UK, following a competitive five-way pitch. The appointment marks the very first time the destination has had an office based in the UK and demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to the market and recognition of its contribution to the country’s tourism economy.

Former high-profile Trade Minister, Dr. Mari Elka Pangestu, was chosen last year by President Soesilo Yudhoyono to lead the restructured Ministry for Tourism and Creative Economy.

With Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland and Chile’s Puyehue-Cordon Caulle having both faded from the headlines in recent months, it is now Indonesia’s turn to experience its share of volcanic disruption. Mount Lokon, on the Indonesian island Sulawesi, has begun to erupt, forcing thousands of local inhabitants to flee.

All 27 passengers who were traveling onboard the Indonesian passenger aircraft that crashed into the sea on Saturday were killed.