Cultural Festival Drives Strengthening of Regional Economy

Cultural festivals are seen not only as spaces for preserving traditions but also as having a strategic role in driving the strengthening of the regional economy. Through collaboration among various elements, culture-based activities can become economic drivers while reinforcing the direction of sustainable development. This was highlighted at the Gresik Cultural Festival held at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah on Sunday (3/5/2026), which brought together hundreds of migrants from Gresik with diverse backgrounds. Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI Jazilul Fawaid emphasised that regional development cannot rely solely on the industrial sector but must also be supported by strengthening other sectors, including education and community-based economy. “Education is the key to creating a superior and competitive generation. This is part of the effort towards Golden Gresik,” he said. In agreement, Imam Subchi assessed that cultural preservation must go hand in hand with strengthening development. According to him, local cultural identity is an important asset in driving regional progress. Around 700 participants attended this event, which also served as a space for consolidation between government, legislature, academics, religious scholars, and business actors. In the discussion session, there was a push for strengthening cross-sector synergies to drive sustainable regional economic development. Chairman of the Gresik Residents Association in Jabodetabek for the 2025–2028 period, Masbukhin Pradhana, said that culture-based activities can be directed to provide real impacts on the regional economy. “The spirit is nyawiji or unity. The existing potential must be directed to build the region to be more advanced and dignified,” said Masbukhin. This festival also became a momentum for strengthening cross-sector collaboration so that culture is not only preserved but also contributes to regional economic growth.