Makassar Prepares to Welcome Delegations from 31 OIC Nations at IGS 2026
Makassar — Makassar’s Mayor Munafri Arifuddin has assured the city’s readiness to welcome delegations from 31 member nations of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) Diplomatic Tour Makassar 2026, scheduled for May-June 2026.
Munafri emphasised the importance of synergy among all regional apparatus to ensure the success of this international-scale event, which is expected to host delegations from dozens of OIC member states and to confirm Makassar’s readiness as host.
“We must provide the delegations with a picture of what they can see and do in Makassar, including investment opportunities and tourism cooperation,” he said whilst chairing a preparatory meeting with the heads of regional government organisations (OPD) under Makassar City Government in Sulawesi Selatan on Tuesday.
He noted that approximately 31 registered OIC member nations are expected to participate in the event, requiring Makassar City Government to prepare a reception concept that is not merely ceremonial but also capable of showcasing the region’s potential.
He stressed attention to technical implementation during the event, including accommodation arrangements, delegation services, activities highlighting Makassar’s distinctive characteristics, and traffic security coordination.
“We must ensure everything aligns with the respective tasks and functions of each agency, so that when implementation occurs, Makassar is truly ready,” he said.
In line with this, Mayor Munafri has appointed Makassar City Secretary Assistant III Firman Pagarra to lead cross-agency coordination to ensure all preparations proceed in a directed and coordinated manner.
Separately, Firman Pagarra stated that Makassar City Government is currently drafting several activity proposals to be submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including an investment forum, visits to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), culinary exploration, and city tourism.
All these concepts, he said, will still be adjusted according to directions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is scheduled to visit Makassar on 30 March.
“What is important now is that we prepare all the materials and concepts. Later, we will consult with the Foreign Ministry to determine what can be implemented,” he said.
The Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) is an annual agenda held in different regions across Indonesia. This year, Makassar has been selected as host with the event planned to take place in late May or early June 2026.