Indonesia | Introducing a New Evaluation Mechanism to Align AI with Ethical Standards

Indonesia is leveraging technologies such as cloud computing, e - government platforms and Artificial Intelligence to drive its rapidly growing digital economy, which is projected to be one of the largest in Southeast Asia, and the Indonesian Government is introducing a new evaluation mechanism to align AI with ethical standards.

The country is developing its capabilities in AI, seeing it as more transformative than the internet itself, with a focus on creating digital infrastructure to support its growth, and this initiative form part of the AI Ethics Guidelines currently being by the Ministry of Commercial and Digital Affairs as reported by ANTARA, well known news agency that delivers real time information on various events from Indonesia and around the world.

Indonesian Government is orchestrating a comprehensive AI transformation, and Indonesia’s Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs leads the charge through the National AI Strategy 2020 - 2045 targeting five critical sectors such as healthcare, government services, education, food security, and urban mobility and continuing to explore various areas to apply AI as a relevant operational support like in this new initiative.

According to experts, the evaluation will be carried out through a gradual process, supported by an incident reporting system that encourage self – assessment by AI developers.

The AI Ethics Guidelines are being prepared alongside the National AI roadmap aiming to accelerate the inclusive, sustainable and responsible development to ensure the growth of the country’s AI ecosystem in line with global ethical frameworks.

The draft guuidelines set out core principles including inclusiveness, humanity, safety, accessibility, transparency, accountability, personal data protection, sustainability, and respect for intellectual property rights.

The Government of the Southeast Asian country emphasises that adopting ethical standards in AI can enhance innovation, strengthen public services, and optimise the use of resources, while supporting sustainable development,. 

Link 

https://tvbrics.com/en/news/indonesia-develops-evaluation-mechanism-to-align-ai-with-ethical-standards/

Colombia | Tourism Contribution Could Break Records this Year According to the World Travel & Tourism Council Projection

Colombia’s tourism sector is experiencing record growth, with international arrivals increasing significantly in 2024 and this year, key performances include record – breaking visitor numbers, remarkable contributions to the national GDP and job creation, and growing diversification of tourism offerings and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects that 2025 will be the strongest year for the Colombian tourism sector in terms of economic contribution, employment and international spending. 

The South American country continues to attract tourists with its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a strong push to become a leading global destination and it is estimated that the sector will reach a contribution of $21.6 billiom to the GDP, which would represent 5.1% of the country total economy, breaking all previous records.

Colombia’s tourism success is driven by its unique biodiversity and cultural wealth coupled with strong governmental promotion, improved air connectivity, focus on safety and a large diversification of products and destinations.

Other factors linked to the South American country’s success are the strategic and effective marketing campaign led by ProColombia, governmental agency in charge of promoting international tourism, non - traditional exports and foreign investment, investment in infrastructure and accommodation, a growing focus on sustainable community - based tourism (CBT) empowering local communities, providing economic benefits and supporting to conserve natural and cultural resources are all elements that helped change global perceptions of the Latin American country,  establishing it as a desirable and must - visit destination.

A further relevant driver is that the tourism businesses in Colombia are implementing innovative practices in their management, commercialization, and sales, which is crucial for maintaining an active,  positive and propositive tourism development with the promotion of a diversified and varied offering in the international landscape, all actions that represent an engine and another key factor for Colombia tourism boom.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2025 Economic Impact Report (EIR) prepared in collaboration with Oxford Economics, the Colombian tourism sector is expected to support 1.3 million jobs, equivalent to 5.7% of the national total worforce, which would also set a record for tourism employment in the Latin American country.

In addition, international tourist spending is expected to reach an all - time high of $10.5 billion, reflecting a steady growth in global demand for Colombian destinations.

Taking a look back at 2024, tourism sector in Colombia had already shown notable signs of strength. The activity contributed $21 billion to GDP, representing 5% of the national total, and exceeded 1.2 millions jobs, equivalent at 5.4% of the total.

International travel accounted for 64.8% of total spending, while domestic travel accounted for 35.2%, contributing $10.3 billion and $5.6 billion, respectively.

Leisure travel dominated demand accounting for 87.3% of spending, compared to 12.7% for business travel.

The main source markets were :  

•    The United States – 21%
•    Mexico – 9%
•    Ecuador – 6%
•    Chile – 5% 
•    Venezuela – 5%

WTTC President and CEO, Julia Simpson said that Colombia reaffirms its position as a powerful tourism destination on a global scale. The sector has shown extraordinary evolution and 2025 is projected to become its best year to date.

With growing international demand, improvements in connectivity and a strong commitment to promotion, the country has everything to ensure that tourism continues to be a strategic axis of growth, inclusion and regional development.

Concerning projections of the Travel and Tourism sector towards 2035, the WTTC forecasts that Colombia will reach $26.5 billion, with a growth more than 2.1% year - on - year.

In addition the World Travel & Tourism Council projects that tourism will support 1.8 million jobs over the next decade, with the incorporation of more than 400.000 new jobs in the sector during this period.

 Colombia’s tourism outlook is highly positive, with the sector experiencing record visitor numbers in 2024, a very positive current year and ambitious goals to reach 7.5 million international visitors by 2026.  

The Colombian government is investing in sustainable tourism, technology, and infrastructure to support the sector, which is seen as a critical economic engine, and there is a focus within key emerging trends include the diversification beyond traditional hubs, increased investment in adventure and eco - tourism, the growing popularity of medical and cruise travel, all elemernts that consolidate Colombia as a leading destination in the region. today and in the coming years

Link 
https://wttc.org/news/el-sector-turistico-de-colombia-podria-aportar-21-6-mil-millones-de-dolares-a-su-economia-en-2025

Ethiopia | Opening of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam to the Public as a National Landmark

Ethiopia opened on 8th September 2025 the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) to public as a national landmark, a US$5 billion megaproject declared complete by the Government in July,  a development that has long been a symbol of the African country’s ambition, pride and resilience.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is located approximately 700 kilometres north - west of the capital of the country Addis Ababa, about 14 kilometres from the border between Ethiopia and Sudan, in the Benishangul - Region along the Blue Nile and is the largest dam in Africa : 1.800 metres long, 170 metres high developed in rolled compacted concrete (RCC).

GERD is a large – scale project, for which innovative and hoc solutions have been developed. A unique element for the construction was the compacted concrete used with advanced research on mixuture, involving world - class experts, a process that has made it possible to significantly increase the setting time of the concrete, with considerable benefits in terms of production and material quality.

The project has created a reservoir that has a surface area of 1.875 square kilometres and a volume of 74 billion billion m³ that collects rainwater and river water and channel it to the main dam, and the average annual  outflow which is estimated at around 50 billion m³ of water and this development is also Africa’s largest artificial lake.

Two hydroelectric powers located at the base of the dam on the left banks of the river were installed, with also a secondary dam in loose material (rockfill) with a concrete facing 5 kilometres long and they consist of 13 Francis turbine with a total installed capacity o 5.150 MW and an average production of 15.700 GW/year.

The dam primary goal is to generate hydroelectric power addressing Ethiopia’s energy shortages and enabling electricity exports to neighboring countries, npwadays it is the largest hydroelectric plant in the African continent, and ranking among the world’s top 20.

Currently Ethiopian officials are positioning the dam not only as an engine of power generation but also as a driver of tourism and regional pride.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali during a recent visit to the dam alongside Social Affairs Adviser Deacon Daniel Kibret, described public access as both an economic opportunity and a symbolic gesture to invite Ethiopians, the diaspora and international travellers to see this massive engineering achievement firsthand.

The Ethiopian Prime Minister stated that GERD is not a threat, but a shared opportunity, reiterating that the dam will not reduce downstream flows to Egypt and Sudan. Both countries expressed concerns about Nile water security fuelling tensions with Ethiopia.

Ethiopia hopes that this new national landmark with its lake will become a tourist destination of relevance for boat tours, fishing, birdwatching and eco – tourism and that it will add to the country’s appeal with this new attraction.

Opening it to visitors could have a relevant economic impact, offering a new source of revenue for the Binishangul – Gumuz region where GERD is located and also for the country. 

Tourism experts said the dam’s vast reservoir, panoramic viewpoints, and surrounding highlands could become year – round attractions if developed properly.

The Ethiopian Prime Minister announced that visits will begin in the coming weeks and it will coincide with formal inauguration events planned for this month and details on ticketing, hours, and security are expected soon.

Links 
https://www.travelmole.com/news/ethiopia-grand-renaissance-dam-national-landmark/
https://www.webuildgroup.com/en/projects/dams-hydroelectric-plants/grand-ethiopian-renaissance-dam-project/

Hilton | Portfolio Expansion with the Opening of a New Property in Arlington, Virginia, U.S.

Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc., American multinational hospitality company based in Tysons, Virginia expanded its portfolio in the United States with the opening of a new property in Arlington, a county in the state of Virginia located in the broader Northern Virginia region in the Washington metropolitan area, on the southwest bank of the Potomac River.

 The Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key which marks the debut of the brand’s refresh identity is a new 36 - story accommodation located at 1900 Fort Myer Drive at the base of the Francis Scott Bridge, 1.6 kilometres from Georgetown Waterfront Park, within a 5 - minutes drive of National Mall and Smithsonian Institution, offering views of Washington D.C, and the Potomac River.

The establishment is part of a mixed - used development by Dittmar Company, a firm providing development, construction, and management f residential and commercial properties based in Vienna, Virginia, and includes 514 residential units. 

The property features 331 comfortable rooms designed with a focus on modern architectural elements and natural tones, the Locket restaurant offering a menu that includes steakhouse classics and seafood housed in a two - story space with large windows, a fitness centre, and a retail outlets.

The Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key also provides 28.000 square feet of meeting and event spaces, including nine meeting rooms with modern technology, and a relevant highlight is The View Key, a venue located on the 36th floor offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The hotel provides direct access to local transportation options, including the Rosslyn Metro,and an easy access to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. 

The opening of this new unit in Virginia represents a strategic development for Hilton, as it introduces a refreshed brand identity and the property aims to serve as strategic hub for business and leisure activities in the D.C. metro area.

 The Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key is part of the Hilton Honours program, offering benefits to members who book directly through Hilton channels.

Links 
https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dcarthh-hilton-arlington-rosslyn-the-key/
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article137831.html

Marriott International | Reopened Following a Renovation the Colony Club, a Lavish Retreat Part of The Luxury Collection, Located on Barbados’s Platinum Coast

Marriott International, American multinational hospitality company based in Bethesda, Maryland, following a renovation has announced the reopening of Colony Club, a lavish retreat located on Barbados’s Platinum Coast as part of The Luxury Collection.

The Colony Club is a stylish beachfront resort known for its relaxed atmosphere and timeless sophistification, located on the Platinum west coast of Barbados, home to some of the most impeccable beaches of the Caribbean, a 4 - minute walk from the historic St.James Church and 10 kilometres from Harrisson’Cave.

Surrounded by seven acres of tropical gardens, palms and waterfalls, the Colony Club built in the 1930s as a private residence became later the the first residential club on the Caribbean island, a retreat for over 70 years establishing itself as a hospitality icon in Barbados and enters in the Luxury Collection, a special brand that features unique, luxurious hotels and resorts located in exciting, desirable destinations worldwide, each offering authentic and transformative experiences deeply connected to their locale.

This luxury brand is characterized by key features include impeccable service, stunning designs that reflect local culture and heritage, and exclusive curated experiences like wine tastings and cultural immersions, all part of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. 

The reopening follows a renovation that included updated to rooms, enhancing wellness space and culinary offerings with the aim to redefine the hospitality standards in Barbados.

The resort now features redesigned guestrooms with updated furnishing and décor, dining options include Laguna, the main restaurant, which serves local cuisine, the Sunset Bar & Deck, offering a casual setting with stunning beach views, and the Rum Vault, a tasting room with over 150 rum and  lagoon - style pools surrounded by tropical gardens.

The wellness program at Colony Club has also been updated offering now treatments inspired by local traditions, the spa boasts a variety of services, including facials and massages.Guest at Colony Club can participate in activities such as cooking classes and water sports.

Colony Club operates under a European Plan, allowing guests to choose their dining experiences.
Reservations started on 1st September 2025 are available and the resort is part of Marriott Bonvoy, the famous company's loyalty program.

Links 
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/bgilc-colony-club-a-luxury-collection-resort-barbados/overview/
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article137934.html

Choice Hotels International | Launched its First Radisson Blu Property in Argentina, Located in Bariloche

Choice Hotel International, an American multinational hospitality company based in North Bethesda, Maryland, has launched its first Radisson Blu property in Bariloche or San Carlos de Bariloche, captivating and scenic city in Argentina’s Patagonia region in the Rio Negro Province, bordering Nahuel Huapi, a large glacial lake by the Andes Mountains, a centre well known for its stunning landscapes, Swiss - inspired architectural style, artisanal chocolate and a variety of delicious cuisine, including local trout and quality draft beers, and a destination offering access to a range of outdoor of activities in the region like hiking and skiing. 

The Radisson Blu Bariloche is located at Avenida Exequiel Bustillo 1099 along Lake Nahuel Hapi in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, a short distance from the lively Avenida Belgrano and the green area of Cerro Viejo. 

The hotel’s location offers guests opportunities to engage in outdoor activities, including hiking in the pristine Andean forests, sport fishing, sailing, water sports and skiing and snowboarding on Cerro Catedral, famous resort perches above Lake Nahuel Huapi, just 20 kilometres from Bariloche, delivering 599 ha of skiable terrain with 58 trials and 26 lifts.

The property features 80 comfortable rooms, including 32 suites, all of which are designed with panoramic views.

Dining oprions at the Radisson Blu Bariloche include two restaurants  : Omakase, which serves a blend of contemporary and traditional Asian cuisne and Coolto, which offers Patagonian - inspired cuisine.

Additionally the hotel features the Michel Rolland Wine Bar, offering a relevant selection of regional and international fine wines, as well as El Ojo, a boutique chocolate shop offering the opportunity to taste the delicious artisanal chocolate of San Carlos de Bariloche.

The hotel also boasts the Lahuan Wellness Spa that is a central feature of the property, providing a range of treatments, including massages, hot stone therapies, and facials. The spa also features yoga and meditadion rooms, as well as a heated indoor - outdoor pool with bar service, and guests can also enjoy a gym and lakeside relaxation areas.

The Radisson Blu Bariloche is part of the company’s expansion strategy for its upper upscale brand in the Caribbean and Latin America. The hotel joins other Radisson Blu locations, including those in Aruba and Chile.

Links 
https://www.choicehotels.com/en-mx/radisson-blu
https://www.hotelnewsresource.com/article137937.html

Zanzibar, Tanzania | Introduced New Entry Fees for Marine Conservation and Protected Areas

The Government of Zanzibar, a Tanzanian archipelago off the coast of East Africa, has introduced new entry fees for selected Marine Conservation and Protected areas, an implementation that came into force on  September 1, 2025.

According to the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fishieris of Zanzibar, this initiative aims to strengthen marine conservation efforts and ensure increased benefits for surrounding communities, a move that reflects Zanzibar’s broader focus on sustainable eco - tourism and marine biodiversity preservation across its coastal zones. 

,The revised tariff applies to sites including the Mnemba Island Conservation Area (MIMCA), famous for its thriving coral gardens, rich fish species, nesting green turtles, and dolphins, making it a premier East African destination for diving and snorkeling, and Menai Bay Conservation Area (MBCA), Zanzibar’s largest marine protected area, well known for its tropical marine environment comprising extensive coral reefs,  tropical fish, sea grasses and mangrove forests.

Other areas include Chumbe, a private island in the Mjini Magharibi region situated in the Zanzibar Channel, well known for its exceptional coral reefs Sanctuary, Forest Reserve and ecological innovation, Changuu - Bawe Conservation Area, Zanzibar’s sixth Marine Protected Area, a new reserve that bans all fishing within its boundaries to give the once - abundant coral reefs a chance to heal and thrive again,  and the Pemba Channel Conservation Area (PECCA), known for its high biodiversity, including seagrass beds, coral reefs, vast mangrove forests and diverse marine life like cetaceans, sharks and turtles.

East African citizens will pay Sh5.000 per adult and Sh.2.500 for children aged 5 -15, while non - East African visitors will be charged $10 per adult and $5 per child. Discounts apply for East - African residents of Tanzania at $5 per adult and $3 per child : entry remain free for children under five.

The Meneba Special Area located about 3 km off the northeast coast of Unguja retains its existing rarre structure, with different fees ranging from $10 to $25 depending on residency and nationality.

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/zanzibar-revises-entry-fees-for-marine-conservation-areas.html