Published on: Thursday, 25 September 2025
Primakara University continues to strengthen its contribution to research and innovation in the field of digital tourism through the development of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and the Metaverse. As part of this commitment, I Gede Wirya Mahendra Nandanawana Putra, S.Kom., M.Sn., carried out a comprehensive data collection activity across nine regencies in the Province of Bali from September to early October 2025.
This activity is part of a research project entitled “Analysis of Opportunities and Challenges in Utilizing Virtual Tours and the Metaverse to Support the Transformation of Bali’s Tourism Towards Smart Tourism.” The project has successfully obtained funding under the Beginner Lecturer Research Grant (Penelitian Dosen Pemula/PDP) scheme from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendiktiristek).
The research focuses on exploring the potential implementation of Virtual Tour and Metaverse technologies in transforming Bali’s tourism sector into a more adaptive, innovative, and sustainable Smart Tourism ecosystem. Through direct engagement with tourism offices across nine regencies, the researcher gathered important data related to current digital readiness, infrastructure, opportunities, and challenges faced in adopting immersive tourism technologies.
The data collection process involved in-depth discussions and coordination with local tourism stakeholders to understand regional perspectives on digital transformation in the tourism industry. This approach ensures that the research outcomes are grounded in real-world conditions and aligned with the needs of local tourism development.
The findings from this research are expected to contribute significantly to the development of strategic frameworks for Smart Tourism in Bali, particularly in leveraging VR and Metaverse technologies to enhance tourist experiences, promote destinations more effectively, and support sustainable tourism practices.
Through this initiative, Primakara University reaffirms its commitment to advancing research that bridges technology and real-world applications, while also supporting Bali’s position as a leading global destination in digital and smart tourism innovation.
Primakara University has established a strategic research collaboration with PT Pegadaian through the signing of a research contract entitled "Analysis of Gen Z Potential in Bali for Digital Gold-Based Financial Inclusion." This partnership reflects the university's commitment to producing impactful research that supports financial literacy, financial inclusion, and industry innovation.
DRPM Primakara University held an IRIS coordination meeting with internal reviewers to support more effective and integrated research and community service management.
Great news once again from Primakara University Nine outstanding lecturers have successfully secured funding for the 2026 Research and Community Service (PKM) Program organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemendiktisaintek). This achievement stands as clear evidence of Primakara’s commitment to fostering innovation, high-quality research, and meaningful contributions to society. Not only excelling in academics, but also creating real impact on the advancement of knowledge and community well-being. Keep creating, keep inspiring! Primakara University is ready to move forward and drive change through research and community engagement. We would like to extend our congratulations to the lecturers who have received this funding, and we hope this achievement continues to inspire the creation of impactful and beneficial works for the wider community.