Driving the Local Economy Through the Grebeg Ageng Andum Apem Yaaqawiyyu Tradition
In an era shaped by digitalisation, traditions and culture must be firmly upheld by the nation to ensure Indonesia’s identity remains resilient against the passage of time. Traditions teach us that culture should not merely be a memory, but something to be preserved and passed down to future generations.
One such enduring tradition is the Grebeg Ageng Andum Apem Yaaqawiyyu of Eyang Kiai Ageng Gribig. This tradition of distributing rice flour-based snacks originated from Kiai Ageng Gribig and served as a practical method for spreading Islam in Java. Originally known as Sheikh Wasibagno Timur, Kiai Agamed Gribig was a prominent cleric dedicated to Islamic proselytisation in Java and is believed to be a descendant of the Majapahit King, Brawijaya V.
“All praise be to Allah SWT for His grace and guidance, allowing us to gather again for the peak of the Grebeg Ageng Saparan Andum Apem YaaQawiyyu Kiai Ageng Gribig Jatinom event in good health,” stated the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, in a statement on Friday (31/07/2026).
Speaking in Jatinom District, Klaten Regency, Central Java, Airlangga noted that this year’s theme, ‘Ingaluhur Rinasa Trusthaning Gusti’, serves as a reminder that regardless of one’s position, knowledge, or achievements, everything must be grounded in humility and trust in Allah SWT. This theme aligns with the exemplary character of Kiai Ageng Gribig, who preached with gentleness, wisdom, and sincerity.
The series of activities began on 16 July 2026, followed by Quranic recitations, Maulid Al Barzanji, and a week-long cultural festival along the main roads of Jatinom, including the Gunungan Apem parade from the Jatinom District Office to the Jatinom Grand Mosque.
On behalf of the Kiai Ageng Gribig lineage, Airlangga expressed gratitude to the committee, religious leaders, the Klaten Regency Government, and security forces for preserving this noble tradition. He also emphasised the economic impact, noting that visitor numbers increase annually, with an estimated 50,000 attendees expected on the peak day. He praised the people of Klaten for contributing to the promotion of Indonesia’s cultural wealth.
“We hope that the teachings of Kiai Ageng Gribig continue, particularly in driving the economic values of the community and fostering social happiness,” Airlangga explained.
During the event, there is a significant surge in income for micro-entrepreneurs near the location, such as street vendors and souvenir providers, who earn substantial additional income throughout the week-long festivities. Furthermore, producers of ‘apem’ cakes face a massive influx of orders, reaching a total of 6 to 7 tonnes for distribution, necessitating supplies from both local residents and neighbouring areas.
Additionally, the service sector benefits from the influx of visitors, with local parking attendants, transport providers, and small food stall owners reaping profits from the surge in tourists, according to Haryo Limanseto, Spokesperson for the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs.