The 13th Gadjah Mada International Conference on Economics and Business (GAMAICEB) was once again held by the Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM) on Wednesday, Jul. 23, 2025.
Carrying the theme “Bridging Academics and Practices: Boosting Social Impact in Tourism,” the conference invited numerous experts and practitioners in the tourism sector to discuss strategies for developing tourism that contributes positively to the environment and society.
The two-day event, held from Jul. 23 to 25, 2025, in Yogyakarta, explored a wide range of topics within sustainable economics, management, and accounting.
Vice-Rector for Research, Business Development, and Partnerships, Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, stated that as a higher education institution, UGM has a responsibility to continuously improve the quality of education by responding to strategic national and global issues.
“Tourism is a sector that offers unique regional appeal. Indonesia’s strength lies in its diverse and attractive tourism destinations, but the key challenge is maintaining quality while enhancing its social contribution,” he remarked.
In line with this, Dr. Gumilang Aryo Sahadewo, Vice-Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs at FEB UGM, emphasized that the event reflects FEB UGM’s commitment to driving cross-sector collaboration with the government and industry.
He expressed hope that the synergy fostered by the event would extend into concrete, impactful programs.
According to Vice-Dean Sahadewo, sustainable collaboration is essential to addressing increasingly complex global challenges.
“Our appreciation and gratitude for the successful implementation of this event. It undoubtedly strengthens our shared vision and mission for synergy,” said Vice-Dean Sahadewo.
GAMAICEB 2025 featured several panel sessions, each addressing different major themes.
In one panel, Andar Danova L. Goeltom, Assistant Deputy for Tourism Human Capital Development and Vocational Education, explained why developing sustainable tourism is crucial.
He noted that we are now in the era of Tourism 4.0, where destinations are no longer merely places to visit, but integral components of sustainability strategies.
“We must elevate the tourism sector on the foundation of sustainability. It’s no longer just about offering comfort for consumption, but about considering environmental aspects,” Assistant Deputy Goeltom said.
One example of sustainability implementation that positively impacts community empowerment is the Village Tourism program.
This initiative creates space for local communities to actively participate in developing their regional tourism sector.
Another pressing issue is the level of awareness among tourism sector managers themselves.
Assistant Deputy Goeltom added that embracing sustainability can serve as a unique value proposition for consumers.
Therefore, it is essential for tourism managers to cultivate a green mindset and possess the technical capability to develop environmentally friendly tourism destinations.
He stressed that this paradigm shift must begin with the understanding that sustainability is not merely a trend, but a long-term necessity.
Additionally, collaboration with other stakeholders, such as academics and environmental communities, can accelerate the transformation process.
“About 17% of customers are willing to pay more to support environmental efforts, so this clearly presents an opportunity,” he added.
Ayu Kartika, President Director of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII), also attended the event and shared examples of environmental and social contributions already implemented.
An alumna of FEB UGM’s postgraduate program, President Director Kartika noted that TMII has undergone significant transformation in recent years.
Improvements have been made not only in infrastructure and cultural ambiance but also in service quality.
TMII is now a family-friendly destination suitable for all age groups, including children. Additionally, it provides special services for visitors with disabilities.
The organization of GAMAICEB 2025, with a focus on tourism, further affirms UGM’s commitment to sustainability values.
The synergy between academia and the private sector has resulted in strategic planning that considers various economic, environmental, and cultural opportunities and challenges.
This forum is expected to continue fostering collaborative opportunities to realize impactful initiatives.
Moreover, sustainable tourism has become a global issue that requires cross-sector and multidisciplinary approaches.
Through this forum, UGM aims to reaffirm its role as a catalyst for change in shaping an inclusive and sustainable tourism ecosystem.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Triya Andriyani
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna