Bandung 10K Boosts Tourism, Economy, and Intercity Collaboration

The Bank BJB Bandung 10K running event is regarded as more than just a sporting agenda; it is a driver for growth in the tourism and economic sectors, while strengthening intercity collaboration through ‘The Ultimate 10K Series’ concept.

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated during a press conference at City Hall on Sunday (17/5) that the Bandung 10K series is part of a development strategy for Bandung City through a sport tourism approach. He noted that such events provide valuable feedback regarding urban infrastructure, encouraging the government to create more pedestrian, cyclist, and disability-friendly environments. Farhan also highlighted that the collaboration between four cities in the Ultimate 10K Series represents a new breakthrough in national sporting event development, noting the presence of representatives from the Tangerang and Semarang City Governments.

Bank BJB Finance Director, Hana Dartiwan, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment as the main sponsor to support the future development of these running events. She expressed hope that the event would expand beyond the current four cities to explore local potential in other regions. Furthermore, she noted that the event could help introduce local potential in each host city, indirectly expanding Bank BJB’s customer base outside of Bandung and encouraging the use of Bank BJB for transactions.

From an operational perspective, the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Kompas, Adi Prinantyo, praised the professionalism of this year’s event, citing punctual starts, favourable weather, and sterile routes as key factors for runner comfort. He noted a significant increase in participation, rising from approximately 3,000 participants last year to around 4,000 this year. This increase in participants naturally leads to more tourists visiting with their families, staying in hotels, and shopping, thereby stimulating Bandung’s economy.

Regarding participation rates, 97 per cent of participants successfully completed the race. Satyo Haryo Wibisonent, Chairman of the Road Event Commission of PASI, also commended the event, describing the Ultimate 10K Series as a unique concept in Indonesia. He noted the high quality of competition, particularly for elite runners, with male runners clocking approximately 26 minutes and female runners approximately 30 minutes.