Regent: PENAS XVII a momentum to boost Gorontalo's economy and tourism

Gorontalo — The Regent of Gorontalo, Sofyan Puhi, stated that the implementation of the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen Week (PENAS XVII) serves as a momentum to mobilise the community’s economy while simultaneously promoting tourist destinations in Gorontalo Regency to thousands of participants from across Indonesia.

“There will certainly be economic activity when guests arrive. Even today, the signs are already becoming visible,” said Sofyan Puhi while inspecting the readiness of the PENAS XVII site in Limboto, Gorontalo Regency, on Wednesday.

According to him, the appointment of Gorontalo as the host of this quadrennial national event is a rare opportunity that must be utilised to the fullest by the region.

In addition to providing an economic impact, the hosting of PENAS XVII is also driving the acceleration of infrastructure improvements and public areas that will serve as visit sites for participants.

He noted that several facilities and tourist attractions have been refurbished ahead of the event, including the Limboto Tower area, Taman Menara, Pentadio Resort, and the Taluhu Barakati tourist site in Botu Da’a Village.

“This is a blessing for Gorontalo Regency because various facilities and tourist areas are being improved alongside it,” he said.

The Gorontalo Regency Government has also prepared approximately 6,000 homestay units spread across the Limboto, West Limboto, Telaga Biru, Telaga, and Telaga Jaya areas to accommodate the needs of participants staying in local residents’ homes.

According to Sofyan, all these homestays are ready for use should they be required by the PENAS XVII participants.

Furthermore, the local government is opening access for the public to visit several refurbished tourist locations throughout the duration of the event.

He invited the community to take advantage of the PENAS XVII momentum to visit the event arenas and enjoy the various tourist destinations available in Gorontalo Regency.

“We hope the community will work together to maintain security and ensure the success of this event,” he said.

PENAS XVII is scheduled to take place from 20–27 June 2026 and will be attended by thousands of participants from various provinces across Indonesia. In addition to the main agenda regarding agriculture and fisheries, the event will also feature exhibitions, technology showcases, cultural performances, and tourism visits.