Garut International Kite Festival Attracts 13 Nations, Serving as a Global Tourism Showcase
The Garut Regency Government has provided full support for the Garut International Kite Festival (GKF), held at Teras Papandayan, Cisurandum District, Garut, West Java. This international-scale event successfully drew thousands of visitors, acting as a promotional showcase for tourism and a means to strengthen local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The Regent of Garut, Abdusy Syakur Amin, expressed his appreciation for the collaboration between various parties, including PT Menara Graha 165, Asgar Jaya, Desa Emas Indonesia, and the involvement of the Malaysian Kite Association. He emphasised the local government’s commitment to supporting similar events in the future, even though the initial initiative was organised independently by the organisers.
“The Garut Regency Government is ready to facilitate improved accessibility and the repair of supporting infrastructure to ensure broader economic and social impacts. I hope that in the future, Garut will be better known in the international community, not only by the kite flying community but also by off-road enthusiasts. Most importantly, we must prepare our culture so that it is well-received by guests from various countries,” said Abdusy Syakur Amin.
The organising committee, Hariyo Puguh Witjaksono, revealed that the enthusiasm from residents and participants was extraordinary. According to committee data, the number of visitors exceeded 4,300 people. The selection of the Garut mountainous region as the venue aimed to create a unique new destination to attract international tourists.
“The Garut International Kite Festival in Papandayan was attended by participants from 13 countries, including Sweden, China, Japan, Switzerland, Thailand, Singapore, France, Belgium, Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, Italy, and Indonesia. Domestic participants also came from West Java, Bali, Yogyakarta, South Sumatra, Central Java, East Java, and Jakarta,” explained Hariyo.
Admiration for the event location also came from abroad. The President of the Malaysian Kite Association (MPM), Datuk A. Rahim Nin, expressed being impressed by the natural beauty and cool mountain air of Garut. He noted that flying kites in a mountainous area provides a unique experience.
“This is the first time I have visited a mountain for a kite festival. Not only the weather, but the natural surroundings are truly beautiful. We feel safe and calm here. The response from the kite flyers has been very positive as they can fly in fresh and cool weather,” said Datuk A. Rahim Nin, who brought a delegation of 10 people from Malaysia.
On the other hand, the Secretary General of Asgar Jaya, Dadang Waldiman, emphasised that the art of kite flying holds a deep meaning beyond mere entertainment, suggesting a life philosophy can be derived from the activity.
“Flying a kite teaches us about balance and self-control. We are encouraged to undergo a process to reach the highest point, yet we must remain firmly grounded on earth,” concluded Dadang.