DPD RI Opens 2026 Awards Nominations, Seeks Cultural Preservationists from Jogja
The Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has officially opened nominations for the DPD RI Awards 2026, calling on the public to register inspirational figures from Yogyakarta, particularly those championing cultural preservation. Nominations are being accepted from 27 July to 21 August 2026 at 23.59 WIB via the official website.
“Learning from last year’s event, DPD RI has made several improvements to ensure this year’s awards can reach more inspirational figures from various regions, from more structured preparations to more specific, individually focused award categories,” the DPD stated in an official release on Tuesday (11/8/2026).
This year’s awards feature four categories. The Education category recognises Innovators in Non-Formal Education for individuals dedicated to establishing and developing non-formal education to broaden learning access. The Health category honours Health Technology Innovators—professionals or academics producing innovations through clinical or laboratory research, including drug discoveries, therapies, or medical devices. The Food Security category awards Village Food Self-Sufficiency Activists who drive the development of self-sufficient villages through local food potential and community empowerment. The Arts and Culture category celebrates Regional Culture Preservationists who demonstrate innovation in developing and preserving regional culture while actively promoting it nationally and internationally. Additionally, Special Recognition Awards will be presented to individuals or groups who have made consistent and sustained contributions to their regions.
“Through the DPD RI Awards 2026, we hope more individuals who have worked and contributed to society will receive appreciation while serving as inspiration for other regions,” the DPD concluded.
DPD RI Chairman Sultan B Najamudin stated that the awards are held to honour inspirational figures from various regions, noting that many individuals have worked and contributed significantly without national public attention. “Through this event, DPD RI wants to emphasise that Indonesia’s development strength rests on the initiatives and hard work of communities across the archipelago, not just in central government and major cities,” Sultan said during the previous DPD Awards in 2025. He added that the awards also reflect the aspirations of the people that DPD RI champions at the national level, reminding that DPD members are direct representatives of regional interests, bringing the people’s voice into national policy. He noted that many community figures who are genuine drivers of change and regional progress in various strategic sectors have yet to receive adequate recognition. “Several categories deserve to be awarded to regional figures whose contributions are quite significant,” he said. Sultan added that the contributions of candidates and finalists span education, social affairs, health, tourism, the creative economy, culture, and environmental conservation, with the DPD Awards expected to strengthen the spirit of these figures to continue inspiring and expanding the impact of their efforts in society.