AS a practitioner lecturer at the Bali State Polytechnic in Jimbaran, Dr. Diah Permana Tirtawati never imagined that the small steps she took would one day inspire so many people. Without realizing it, her passion for teaching, sharing knowledge, and continuously learning has motivated colleagues and students alike to pursue further education and never stop growing.
Her decision to continue her studies to the doctoral level was not an instant one. When the Covid-19 pandemic struck, she experienced the same uncertainty felt by many—an abrupt pause in a world that suddenly stopped.
During that period of reflection, she began to recognize a new demand in the professional landscape, especially when several government bidding processes required a PhD qualification in tourism. This requirement became a turning point that encouraged her to reconsider higher education.
Before the pandemic, she had hesitated to return to university due to the rigorous attendance requirements for doctoral programs, which demanded up to 80 percent offline presence—a significant commitment amid her busy schedule. But everything changed when Covid-19 forced academic institutions to shift to fully online learning. It was in that unexpected shift that her enthusiasm reignited.
Her educational journey expanded further when she became involved with Nawa Cita Pariwisata Indonesia (NCPI), an organization supporting tourism practitioners and community leaders, especially in Bali. Through NCPI, she met a figure who later played a pivotal role in her academic path—Prof. Dr. Drs. I Nyoman Sunarta, M.Si of Udayana University. His encouragement and reassurance convinced her that it is never too late to return to school.
Although she initially felt uncertain—having been away from academia for more than 20 years since completing her master’s degree in Berlin, Germany—she officially began her doctoral studies in Tourism at Udayana University in 2021. She vividly remembers Nyepi Day that same year, which she spent entirely writing her dissertation proposal—a moment filled with determination and quiet resolve.
Completing her dissertation was far from an easy journey. Behind the prestige of her academic achievement lies a long road marked by demanding workloads, teaching responsibilities, professional commitments, and various challenges that emerged along the way. Yet her perseverance never wavered. Despite limited time and energy, she completed her dissertation on schedule and successfully earned her doctoral degree in 2024.
The story of Dr. Diah Permana Tirtawati is a powerful reminder that learning knows no age limit, and opportunities come to those who choose to remain open. Her dedication as an educator, professional, and lifelong learner makes her an inspiring figure in Bali’s academic and tourism landscape.
Pioneering Green & Hybrid MICE Through Her Dissertation
Her dissertation, “Developing a Green-Hybrid Conference Management Model in the Post–Covid-19 Era to Support Sustainable Tourism in Bali,” stands as a highly relevant academic contribution to the evolving landscape of the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.
More than enriching academic discourse, the work offers practical solutions for building a more sustainable, innovative, and adaptive MICE ecosystem in Bali.
For Dr. Diah Permana Tirtawati, opportunities are always available for those willing to take a chance.
“Opportunities will always come—it’s just a matter of whether we choose to try or not. I took the chance, even with doubts, and eventually succeeded,” she shared.
To her, experience is an essential foundation when writing a dissertation.
“If you have experience, you can write. Without it, what would you write about?” she added.
Dr. Diah is the only Tourism Doctorate graduate whose dissertation specifically focuses on MICE, emphasizing two critical concepts: Green MICE and Hybrid MICE. The hybrid approach is a strategic breakthrough, especially as a safeguard against emergencies such as the Covid-19 pandemic. By leveraging technology, MICE events can continue to run, generate economic value, and deliver meaningful experiences—regardless of physical limitations.
She highlights that Hybrid MICE remains a paid format, ensuring economic benefits for organizers as well as host destinations. Interestingly, MICE is never just about meetings; there is always a cultural component involved—whether it is an opening dance or other artistic performances. These cultural elements serve as strong attractions for both onsite and virtual participants.
Virtual attendees may not be able to visit Bali immediately, but the cultural experiences they encounter often spark curiosity and inspire them to visit in the future. In this way, MICE events naturally become powerful promotional tools for Bali’s tourism—without the need for additional marketing campaigns.
Through her visionary thinking and rigorous academic approach, Dr. Diah demonstrates that the academic world and the industry can move forward in synergy. With her dedication and innovative mindset, she is helping lead Bali’s MICE sector into a new chapter—one that is greener, smarter, and more sustainable. **
Writer: Karolina | Editor: Igo Kleden
