Thousands in Kemalang, Klaten, Celebrate Metri Bumi Merapi Cultural Parade

The Ageng Metri Bumi Merapi parade was held at the Kalitalang Ecotourism area in Balerante Village, Kemalang District, Klaten, on Sunday, marking the culmination of the Metri Bumi Merapi tradition. The event serves as an expression of gratitude from the community for the blessings bestowed by nature on the slopes of Mount Merapi. This third edition of the tradition embraced the spirit of ‘Ruwat, Raket, Rawat, Ragat’, symbolising self-purification, strengthening brotherhood, preserving nature, and reinforcing togetherness in building a harmonious life. Thousands of residents thronged the ecotourism area, participating in a cultural parade that showcased harvest mountains, tumpeng rice cones, and traditional arts as symbols of thanksgiving to God and community solidarity. Klaten Bupati Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo attended the peak event and noted the tradition’s positive development, expanding from a single-day event to a three-day programme filled with various activities. He stated that Metri Bumi Merapi not only serves as a cultural agenda but also reflects the strong unity and togetherness of the communities on the slopes of Mount Merapi, as well as a high spirit of maintaining interfaith tolerance. The Bupati expressed hope that the tradition will continue to develop into a flagship cultural and tourism event for Klaten Regency, attracting more visitors to Kalitalang. He also extended his appreciation to the organising committee and all parties involved, wishing the communities on the mountain slopes continued health, strength, and protection from disasters.