Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Stresses Importance of Regional Identity Through Local Wisdom
Deputy Home Affairs Minister (Wamendagri) Bima Arya Sugiarto has stressed the importance of regional heads playing a role in building regional identity through local wisdom. He stated that Indonesia’s diversity needs to be translated into a development strength through the concept of city branding, supported by a sustainable innovation ecosystem.
Bima noted that for years, many regions have been trapped in uniform development patterns, causing the distinctive character of each area to become less prominent. In fact, Indonesia possesses a wealth of historical, cultural, and local potential that can serve as both an identity and a source of regional economic growth.
“City branding is not just about image-making. That is wrong. In city branding, there is the current image, secondly there is the story of the past, and thirdly there is the vision of the future,” he said in a written statement on Wednesday (24/6/2026).
He added that regional heads need to have an understanding of history, a vision for the future, and the ability to optimise their region’s differentiation to build strong city branding. According to him, this understanding can be realised through work programmes.
Bima expressed appreciation for several regional heads who have successfully broken away from uniformity and highlighted their regions’ uniqueness. He sees the steps they have taken as examples of how local potential can be developed into an identity while also providing economic value.
“Today, several regional heads are present and receiving awards. The awards are for being able to break out of uniformity and elevate that local character,” he said.
Bima observed that several regions have begun utilising local potential through the development of sport tourism and various international agendas. However, he cautioned that such efforts cannot rely solely on hosting events or temporary promotions.
“This differentiation is not just about exploiting nature and showcasing it through events, but requires a strong and sharp concept so that the differentiation becomes institutionalised,” he explained.
Bima also emphasised that the success of developing local potential depends on a robust innovation ecosystem formed through research, regulation, institutional frameworks, human resources, and funding support.
“Congratulations to all, and bismillah, may Allah ease our efforts to elevate local potential and local wisdom for regional revival towards the nationally targeted economic growth,” he concluded.