Five Gandrung Sewu dancers from Banyuwangi survive ferry fire
Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani offered encouragement to five Gandrung Sewu dancers from Palembang and Lampung, in Sumatra, who survived a fire aboard a ferry on the Bakauheni (Lampung)–Merak (Cilegon, Banten) crossing.
Ipuk contacted the five dancers by video call on Wednesday from Banyuwangi, East Java, to speak with the dancers and their chaperone and check on their condition.
During the call, Regent Ipuk urged them to stay strong and look after their health following the incident. She also expressed sympathy and said she hoped they would all reach Banyuwangi safely.
“How are you all? Are you well? I’m very concerned about your condition,” she said, opening the video call with the dancers’ chaperone, Suprianto.
At the time of the call, the dancers from outside the region were continuing their journey to Banyuwangi by bus after the ferry fire.
Although the ferry they were travelling on caught fire, they said they would still take part in the Gandrung Sewu performance on Saturday night, 24 October.
“A local government vehicle will pick you up at the final bus terminal, and the Banyuwangi Regency Government will provide for your needs while you are in Banyuwangi, including helping you return to Lampung and Palembang,” Ipuk said.
Despite the incident, the dancers remained enthusiastic about performing in Gandrung Sewu and said they were determined to take part in the annual cultural event, which is a source of pride for Banyuwangi.
Their resolve reflects their love for the regional arts and culture they have long pursued.
“Thank you for your enthusiasm and for still being willing to travel to Banyuwangi for Gandrung Sewu. We are all deeply moved by your struggle and sacrifice,” Regent Ipuk said during the video call with the dancers from Sumatra.
Gandrung Sewu 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, 24 October, at 6.30pm Western Indonesian Time. Of the 1,300 Gandrung dancers set to perform this year, 200 are from outside Banyuwangi. They are travelling from Palembang, Lampung, Jakarta, Bali, Malang and Pasuruan.