Garuda Indonesia became the 20th member of the global SkyTeam alliance on Wednesday and the country’s tourism minister said it would fortify the airline’s global position and bring the world to Indonesia, in terms of tourism and other businesses.

Addressing the celebration dinner at The Mulia six-star hotel in Bali, Ibu Mari Elka Pangestu, minister of tourism and creative economy, said SkyTeam membership would help Garuda passengers get access to more than 1,000 destinations around the world.

She described travel and tourism as the fastest growing industry in the world with 185 billion tourists. “Tourism in Southeast Asia is growing at the rate of 12 percent annually with Indonesia playing a big role in the market,” she said.

More than seven million foreign tourists, including 110,000 Saudis visited the country last year, while Bali, described as the paradise island received nearly three million.

Pangestu cited three main reasons for Garuda to join SkyTeam: Improving the quality of service by learning best practices of other airlines, winning global branding for Garuda and all the 19 member airlines are committed to promoting Indonesia; and its worldwide network will enhance Garuda’s global reach.

The minister applauded the marvelous performance of Garuda stewardesses who presented a stunning welcome dance during the ceremony, reflecting the excellent coordination, cooperation and synchronization between the 20-member troupe, essential qualities required for the success of any project. The cultural show also reflected Garuda’s five-senses concept as it enthralled the guests from all over the world.

Emirsyah Satar, president and CEO of Garuda Indonesia, signed the membership documents with Michael Wisbrun, managing director of SkyTeam, in the presence of the top executives of member airlines, including Saudia CEO Abdul Aziz Al-Hazmi.

“Today is indeed one of the most historical moments for Garuda Indonesia as we are now taking another giant leap by officially becoming the 20th member of the SkyTeam global alliance,” he told a huge crowd including government officials, businessmen and businesswomen and travel executives.

“Ever since we marked our commitment to become a fully-fledged member of the SkyTeam, back in 2010, we have never rested on our laurels. We persistently strived together, not only to fulfill all of the necessary requirements, but also to fortify our position as a world-class airline,” Satar said.

Garuda adds 40 new destinations to SkyTeam’s global network and strengthens alliance presence in Southeast Asia and Australia. “I strongly believe that together with other SkyTeam members, we have the potential to significantly increase our collective performances,” the CEO told the gathering.

“Joining SkyTeam has been part of Garuda Indonesia’s progressive transformation program throughout all aspects of the company. This milestone marks a momentous occasion in our airline’s 65-year history and we look forward to future collaboration with our alliance partners,” Satar said.

SkyTeam chief Wisbrun also addressed the ceremony. “Garuda’s entry into the alliance will give its customers access to SkyTeam’s 1,064 destinations that cover more than 90 percent of the most relevant traffic flows in the world…Garuda strengthens our presence throughout the Asia Pacific region for our 588 million global passengers,” he said.

“SkyTeam aims to boost its members’ competitiveness by strengthening network and hubs, enhancing their global footprint, improving the customer experience and introducing innovative initiatives that enhance customer benefits,” added Wisbrun.

Garuda flies to 64 destinations in 12 countries, including 40 domestic destinations. SkyTeam customers from every continent will benefit from easier access to Indonesia’s key business and tourism destinations, facilitated by Garuda’s partnerships with alliance members.

The airline boosts SkyTeam’s presence in Australia with service to Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney; and in Tokyo with flights to both Narita and Haneda airports. Garuda will increase its service to Europe in May this year with a new route between Jakarta and London’s Gatwick airport.

As part of the requirements of joining SkyTeam, Garuda is implementing the alliance’s customer-focused initiatives. These include SkyPriority — priority airport services for Elite Plus, First and Business Class passengers worldwide — which has been rolled out at over 900 global airports.

Effective immediately, Garuda’s 25 million annual passengers will be able to earn and redeem miles when flying on SkyTeam member-operated flights.

Members of other SkyTeam airlines’ frequent flyer programs can also earn and redeem miles when flying on Garuda Indonesia operated flights. With approximately 500 daily flights and a fleet of around 140 aircraft, Garuda Indonesia serves passengers with the award-winning "Garuda Indonesia Experience" service, which highlights Indonesia’s warm hospitality and rich diverse culture.