BATAMCLICK.COM: It was a warm Tuesday afternoon, June 17, 2025, when a group of passionate tourism practitioners gathered at the Office of the Riau Islands Tourism Department in Dompak. They came as the newly established Himpunan Praktisi Tour Leader Indonesia (HIPTI), founded officially just a month earlier, on May 20, 2025.
Led by Chairman Surya Wijaya, along with Secretary Enli, Treasurer Muhammad Ishaq, and other board members—Irfan, Bakrim Bere, Roni, and Azqrul—the HIPTI delegation was warmly welcomed by Head of the Riau Islands Tourism Office, Mr. Hasan S.Sos.
This wasn’t just a courtesy visit. It was a strategic step toward improving human resources in tourism, especially those working on the front lines—tour leaders who guide and assist tourists throughout their journey.
Surya explained that HIPTI was born out of necessity. Until now, tour leaders in Batam and Kepri have worked without any formal organization. They faced various challenges—from lost passports to medical emergencies and travel mishaps—handling them alone, relying only on personal experience.
“We want to change that,” Surya said. “HIPTI is here to provide protection, training, and certification so our members can be truly professional and ready to face any challenge on the field.”
Mr. Hasan expressed strong support for HIPTI, recognizing it as a strategic partner in improving Kepri’s tourism sector. He also welcomed input from HIPTI regarding improvements in tourist amenities—particularly safety standards for boats and ports serving destinations like Penyengat Island.
Most notably, he confirmed his willingness to attend the upcoming MoU signing between HIPTI and the Johor Tour Guide Association—a cross-border collaboration aimed at enhancing the comfort and confidence of tourists visiting both regions.
Background of HIPTI:
As a border region neighboring Singapore and Johor (Malaysia), Riau Islands serve as a key gateway for international tourists.
Yet, despite this strategic position, tourism human resources—especially tour leaders—have long been overlooked. HIPTI was established to fill that gap, providing legal protection, professional development, and certification to tour leaders in Indonesia.
HIPTI aims to work closely with central and regional governments, training institutions, and BNSP (the Indonesian Professional Certification Authority) to strengthen and professionalize Kepri’s tourism workforce.(bosanto)
