Cilegon Greets The World Through International Cultural Festivals

Banten Governor Andra Soni hit the gong to close Budaye Cilegon Fest and International Folk-Art (BCF-IFA) 2025 in Cilegon City. (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Cultural festivals have always been a special moment where art, traditions, and friendship across countries meet on one stage. Through dances, music, culinary, to handicrafts, an area can display its identity as well as open up to influence and inspiration from outside.

More than just entertainment, a cultural festival is an interaction space that revives local wisdom, strengthens tolerance, and builds a positive image in the eyes of the world.

This spirit is seen in the Cilegon Fest and International Folk-Art (BCF-IFA) 2025 Culture. Banten Governor Andra Soni assessed that this event is a forum that strengthens openness and mutual trust in the international arena.

The festival, which was held on August 6 at the Cilegon City Square, features traditional dances and local culture, as well as presents the participation of friendly countries such as India and South Korea. This reflects that Cilegon City is an area that is very open to other civilizations," said Andra in Serang City, as quoted by ANTARA.

Andra, who also opened and closed the series of events on Sunday, August 11, night, emphasized that international cultural interactions could be a social capital for regional progress.

"I am sure, with a strong collaboration between all stakeholders, the City of Cilegon will continue to grow," he said.

In addition to cultural wealth, Andra also reminded Cilegon's great potential as a port city with deep seas that can be driven by large ships. On that occasion, he launched the 'Golok Day' program as an effort to remind the importance of preserving traditional Cilegon weapons that are full of historical value.

The Mayor of Cilegon, Robinsar, added that this festival is proof of the local government's commitment to maintaining cultural heritage as well as forming a community character. When talking about culture, it's not just about dance and music, but the identity of an area," he said.