Legislator Supports Kendal's Sedekah Laut Tradition Becoming a National Event

Member of Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Firnando Ganinduto, has expressed appreciation for the Sedekah Laut or Nyadran tradition held in Gempolsewu Village, Rowosari District, Kendal Regency. As a form of respect for the coastal community tradition passed down through generations, Firnando joined the fishing boat entourage in the sea offering procession on Friday (26/6). He assessed that the Sedekah Laut tradition in Gempolsewu is not only a cultural tradition but also strengthens community togetherness while driving the tourism and MSME sectors. “We attended the sea festival or Sedekah Laut in Gempolsewu Village. This is a very good agenda because it serves as a gathering event for the community as an expression of gratitude for the abundant blessings given by Allah SWT. This tradition is very good and continues to be held every year,” he said, as quoted from a received press release. He affirmed his continued support for the implementation of Sedekah Laut so that it can further develop into a national-scale event. “God willing, we will continue to support it. I see the event is very lively and extraordinary. In my opinion, this activity must be elevated to a national-scale event. Later, I will communicate with the Village Head to formulate steps so that this Sedekah Laut Tawang can move up a class to become a national agenda,” he stated. Meanwhile, Gempolsewu Village Head Charmadi said the series of Sedekah Laut events always attracts thousands of visitors annually, not only from Kendal Regency but also from various other regions. “Visitors come from Temanggung, Wonosobo, and other areas. The enthusiasm is very high,” he revealed. According to Charmadi, Sedekah Laut not only features the sea offering procession but is also enlivened by various cultural and entertainment activities, such as rowing competitions, wayang kulit performances, barongan, ketoprak, cultural parades, MSME bazaars, and various other folk performances. He hopes that Sedekah Laut in Gempolsewu can become a national-scale cultural agenda as well as a cultural tourism icon for Kendal Regency. “Through this activity, we want to introduce Gempolsewu Village, which has a lot of potential, both natural potential and human resources. Hopefully, in the future, Sedekah Laut can become a national event because this is the icon of Gempolsewu Village,” he explained. Charmadi also conveyed his appreciation to all parties who have supported the implementation of the Sea Festival, especially House of Representatives member Firnando Ganinduto and the Regent of Kendal. “We express our gratitude to Mr Firnando Ganinduto and the Regent of Kendal for their support so that this year’s Sea Festival could take place festively and successfully,” he concluded.