MESSAGE FROM MAYOR OF MAKASSAR
MESSAGE FROM CHAIRPERSON

Dear friends from tourism industry,

On behalf of the people of South Sulawesi, I would like to extend the warmest welcome to all participants to this year’s Tourism Indonesia Mart & Expo (TIME), to be held in Makassar, the capital city of South Sulawesi, on 14–17 October 2008 at Celebes Convention Center.  It is our pleasure to host this Indonesia’s most important travel mart for the second time after last year’s TIME being merged with PATA Travel Mart in Bali.

Looking at the previous TIME held in our region, TIME remains as a strategic event to promote Makassar, South Sulawesi and East Indonesian regions as global tourist destinations to the international market. By hosting this event, we could show our most attractive tourist destinations and new developments have been made in our region, and at the same it gives you an opportunity to meet all Indonesia under one roof. 

Over the years, South Sulawesi has become favorite holiday destinations by international holiday makers, together with Bali and Yogyakarta in Central Java.  A visit to Toraja will give you an unforgettable experience, starting from its unspoilt natural beauty of South Sulawesi highlands, the famous Torajan tombs, the mystic funeral ceremonies, and the unique architecture of the traditional Torajan house called “tongkonan”.  Its unique culture, scenic beauty, cool climate and friendly people have made Toraja among the global tourist destinations worldwide.  

In closing, may I say that you certainly will receive the genuine welcome and warmest hospitality from the people of Makassar and all East Indonesia regions who are proud and pleased to have the opportunity to once again show our heritage and living culture to the world.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to TIME 2008 in Makassar.

Sincerely yours,