JAKARTA - Local traditions are once again showing their role as a driving force for the tourism sector. Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa assessed that the Blangikhan tradition in Central Lampung is a real example of how tourism can grow from the culture of the local community.
"This is a tangible form of tourism that grows from the community, is managed together, and provides direct benefits for local welfare," Ni Luh said in an official statement confirmed in Jakarta, Thursday.
When giving a speech in Nuwo Balak, Central Lampung, Wednesday (18/2), he emphasized that this tradition is not only an effort to preserve cultural heritage, but also has the potential to strengthen the local economy through the development of a tourism ecosystem based on culture and spirituality.
According to him, strengthening tourism based on culture and spirituality is an important part of the national tourism strategy. Culture, he said, is the main foundation in building quality, competitive, sustainable tourism, and rooted in the identity of the nation.
The involvement of UMKM actors in the Blangikhan series is also considered to increase the economic impact of the activity. Local products that are present in every celebration are proof that traditions can function as an engine for economic growth as well as a space for community empowerment.
Ni Luh added that the spiritual values contained in this tradition invite the community to strengthen social relations, strengthen mental and spiritual readiness, and reflect on themselves ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.
"This tradition shows that local wisdom is not just a legacy of the past, but a future strength that can become the foundation for sustainable tourism development," he said.
He also opened the opportunity for collaboration between the central government, local governments, communities, and various stakeholders so that Blangikhan can be developed into an annual agenda that is increasingly qualified and sustainable. In addition, the potential of other destinations in Lampung Province is expected to be mapped and developed in an integrated manner.
Meanwhile, Lampung Deputy Governor Jihan Nurlela said that Lampung is currently ranked 9th in the list of 10 regions with the largest contribution to tourist visits in Indonesia. However, he admitted that there were still challenges, especially in building a more optimal and integrated tourism ecosystem.
The Lampung Provincial Government is also planning to develop a Special Economic Zone (KEK) to encourage investment to enter. This step is expected to be able to accelerate the growth of the surrounding area while improving people's welfare.
"We ask for prayers and support from the Deputy Minister of Tourism so that this program can be realized and bring real benefits to the community, especially for the development of Lampung Province tourism," said Jihan.
The Blangikhan tradition, also known as Blangiran, is a ritual of purification for the people of Lampung before Ramadan. The procession is carried out by sprinkling water from seven springs as a symbol of purification of the body and soul. This tradition, which has been passed down from generation to generation, has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019 by the Ministry of Education and Culture.
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