September 22, 2024, Batu City – The sustainable development of tourism is not only about increasing the number of tourists coming for vacations or staycations in Batu, but it must also have a ripple effect on other sectors. One of these sectors is the local MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) in Batu, which need to be supported in terms of production, marketing, and sales.

The Acting Mayor of Batu, Aries Agung Paewai, expressed his appreciation for the Aston Inn Batu Hotel. His recognition wasn't without reason; the four-star hotel has collaborated with Punten Keprok Orange farmers and local hand-painted artist Rokhim, giving space to showcase local products.

“By involving the Punten Keprok orange farmers and collaborating with local hand-painted artist Rokhim, this hotel not only introduces Batu's local fruit and artwork to tourists but also positively impacts the community’s economy,” said Aries, the Acting Mayor of Batu.

The city’s top official was also impressed by the artwork of Batu-born artist Rokhim, who meticulously paints directly on fabric. Aries commented that Rokhim’s work is a masterpiece, rivaling the quality of screen-printed designs.

Interestingly, hotel guests and tourists can witness this creative process firsthand through live painting sessions held every weekend in the hotel’s restaurant. “The uniqueness and charm of each piece lie in the intricate details of the painting, which come to life and compete with screen-printing quality. Truly, a work of art born from the hands of a maestro,” he added.

Aries hopes that the collaboration between Aston Inn, Punten Keprok farmers, and local artist Rokhim will inspire other tourism businesses to pay closer attention to the creative economic potential in their regions, especially in Batu.

He also emphasized that tourism and the creative economy are priority sectors in Batu that must continue to be developed, with a focus on involving the people of Batu.

“I also hope the Batu Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) will synergize with local farmers, such as apple, strawberry, and crystal guava farmers, to promote their products in hotels to ensure economic stability for the community,” he added.

Additionally, hotels can bundle these efforts into tourism packages offered to visitors. This could increase the return visit rate to Batu, helping to reach the city's target of 12 million tourists by 2024.

Meanwhile, ASTON Inn Batu's General Manager, Didik Rocki Wahyono, mentioned that his hotel is very open to MSMEs that want to sell their products there, as long as they meet high standards.

“When we first opened in 2018, we had an MSME corner featuring about five MSMEs. However, it wasn’t very successful because the products were not diverse enough and were too expensive, which made them less attractive to guests. But we have kept the communication open to improve product quality,” he said.

He added that MSME products must understand their market segment and maintain quality to appeal to hotel guests. “In fact, food souvenirs and fashion items are often chosen by our guests. As long as the quality is good, guests don’t mind the price, but it must truly be worth it.”