Prominent Figure in Indonesian Tourism, Wuryastuti Sunario, Passes Away
Jakarta, Indonesia — March 29, 2025
With deep sorrow, Bali Update reports the death of Wuryastuti Sunario, a trailblazer in the realm of Indonesian tourism, who passed away peacefully at her home in Jakarta at the age of 84 in the early hours of March 29, 2025. Widely known as "Tuti," her contributions to public service and the tourism industry have left an indelible mark on the nation.
A Legacy of Service
Wuryastuti Sunario dedicated more than 50 years of her life to promoting Indonesian tourism, engaging in government service, travel trade show initiatives, tourism administration, and travel journalism. Her multifaceted career exemplifies her commitment to elevating Indonesia’s status as a global tourist destination.
Born on November 6, 1940, in Salatiga, Central Java, Tuti was raised in a family steeped in public service. Her father, Sunario Sastrowardoyo, was Indonesia’s seventh Foreign Minister and a key figure in the country’s struggle for independence. Tuti inherited his spirited dedication to the nation’s progress.
Academic Achievements
Tuti Sunario pursued an impressive education abroad, earning a General Certificate of Education at Oxford University and completing a degree in English, French, and German literature from the University of Reading, UK, in 1959. Upon returning to Indonesia in 1962, she further obtained a Bachelor of Arts from Padjadjaran University in Bandung, which laid the groundwork for her illustrious career.
Career Milestones
Tuti began her professional journey at the United Nations Development Programme Office (UNDP) before transitioning into the private sector as a tour manager for Marintours. She rose to heights such as the Executive Director of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Association and held various significant positions in government tourism roles.
From 1974 to 1978, Tuti served at the Directorate of Marketing of the Directorate General of Tourism, where she played a significant role in shaping tourism policies. Her international influence grew when she became the Marketing Manager at the Indonesia Tourist Promotion Office (ITPO) in San Francisco, followed by her tenure as Director of the ITPO in Singapore during its formative years, which bolstered Indonesia’s appeal as a tourist destination.
She was instrumental in establishing critical air links and was actively involved with the Indonesian Tourism Promotion Board (ITPB), a pivotal organization aimed at enhancing international tourism in Indonesia.
Lasting Impact
After her retirement in 1999, Tuti continued to contribute to the tourism sector through various capacities, including editing and publishing "Indonesia Digest," a key bulletin on Indonesian affairs, and serving as the Chairperson of “Care Tourism.” Her efforts in promoting lesser-known Indonesian regions through initiatives like the "Pasar Wisata" or Tourism Indonesia Mart and Expo were notable.
Tuti’s dedication earned her recognition in the ASEAN Travel & Tourism Hall of Fame, affirming her legacy within the tourism industry.
Tributes and Burial Arrangements
Wuryastuti Sunario’s remarkable journey and her extensive contributions to Indonesian tourism will be fondly remembered. She is survived by her family and many colleagues who respected and admired her work passionately. Her burial is scheduled for Sunday, March 30, 2025, in the Christian Section of TPU Tanah Kusir.
As the tourism community reflects on her life, many will continue to draw inspiration from Tuti’s steadfast commitment to promoting Indonesia on the world stage.
In Remembrance
With her passing, Indonesia has lost a giant in the tourism sector. Wuryastuti Sunario leaves behind a rich legacy that will be honored by future generations dedicated to the growth and promotion of Indonesian tourism. Rest in peace, Tuti Sunario.
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