BANJARMASIN — Tour leaders play more than just a role in accompanying tourists during their journeys. They also have an important responsibility in presenting and promoting the image of a region’s tourism industry. Recognizing this role, the South Kalimantan Regional Leadership Board of the Association of Indonesian Travel Industry Professionals (DPD ASPPERWI South Kalimantan) continues to promote the development of its members’ skills through technical training and tourism-sector certification.
Held at Rumah Anno 1925 in Banjarmasin, the program represents ASPPERWI South Kalimantan’s efforts to develop professional and competent tour leaders who are ready to provide the best possible service to tourists while contributing to the advancement of tourism in South Kalimantan.
The program was officially opened by the Head of the South Kalimantan Provincial Tourism Office, H. Iwan Fitriady, S.H., M.H. Also in attendance were ASPPERWI South Kalimantan Chairwoman Siti Aisyah; Head of the Creative Economy Division at the South Kalimantan Provincial Tourism Office, Liza Verawati, S.Sos.; Chair of LSP Parnus, Diyan Putranto, S.E., M.M.; and participants who are members of ASPPERWI South Kalimantan.
In his remarks, Iwan Fitriady emphasized that a professional and skilled workforce is essential to the development of the tourism industry.
According to him, South Kalimantan’s tourism potential cannot rely solely on the beauty of its destinations. The region also needs human resources capable of managing destinations, introducing them to visitors, and providing tourists with the best possible experiences.
“The presence of professional and skilled human resources is a necessity,” Iwan said.
He explained that professional tourism workers play a strategic role in developing the region’s tourism potential so that it can attract visitors sustainably.
Their roles include destination management, marketing, tour guiding, and the development of tour packages that highlight the region’s cultural heritage, culinary offerings, and local entertainment.
Tour Leaders Are More Than Travel Companions
Iwan Fitriady also expressed his hope that tour leaders would take on a greater role as the frontline of tourism promotion in South Kalimantan.
Because they interact directly with tourists, tour leaders have a valuable opportunity to introduce leading destinations, local culture, traditional cuisine, and the region’s creative economy potential.
“Tour leaders are expected not only to accompany tourists, but also to become part of the region’s tourism promotion efforts,” he said.
For this reason, improving their competencies is essential. A tour leader is expected not only to be capable of managing an itinerary, but also to have extensive destination knowledge, strong communication and coordination skills, and the ability to respond effectively to various situations that may arise during a trip.
ASPPERWI Pushes Tourism Professionals to the Next Level
Through technical training and certification programs, ASPPERWI South Kalimantan seeks to ensure that its members possess competencies that meet the needs of the tourism industry.
The training covers a range of areas, including trip preparation, schedule coordination, destination knowledge, departure arrangements, and emergency response procedures.
The competency development program is carried out through cooperation between ASPPERWI’s national and regional leadership, training institutions, and relevant professional certification bodies.
Participants who successfully pass the certification process receive competency certificates through a Professional Certification Institute (LSP) scheme licensed by the National Professional Certification Agency (BNSP).
For ASPPERWI South Kalimantan, certification is not merely proof of competency. It is also part of a broader effort to improve service standards for tourists.
With an increasing number of competent and professional tourism workers, ASPPERWI South Kalimantan hopes to improve the overall quality of travel experiences. Ultimately, tourists should return home with more than just photographs and stories; they should also take away positive experiences that inspire them to return and enjoy the charm of South Kalimantan.
This initiative further strengthens the position of tour leaders as one of the key frontline elements of the travel industry and destination promotion in South Kalimantan.
Daffa Ibrahim
