Papua is once again showcasing its charm by holding a Maritime Festival at Deppare Container Port, Jayapura on Tuesday (20/8). This event is not just a cultural celebration, but also a strategy to promote the tourism sector and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Papua.
The two goals of the Maritime Festival are promoting Papua’s tourism potential, which is rich in natural and cultural beauty, and increasing the growth of local MSMEs. By combining traditional culture and economic potential, the local government hopes the festival can open up new opportunities for the local community.
The Bea dance, as one of the festival’s highlights, not only attracts tourists but also serves as a means to introduce Papua’s rich culture to the world. The dance depicts the warmth and hospitality of the Papuan people in welcoming guests, reflecting the character of the local people who are always ready to receive visitors with open arms. In addition to cultural attractions, the Maritime Festival is also an exhibition for local MSME products. Various handicraft products, speciality foods, and Papuan produce are showcased at the festival, giving MSME players the opportunity to introduce their products to a wider market.
The presence of tourists in the festival is expected to increase sales and open export opportunities for local products. The Jayapura local government sees the festival as a momentum to revive the tourism sector, which has been affected by the pandemic. With the Maritime Festival, they hope to attract more domestic and international tourists to visit Papua, thereby boosting regional economic growth. The Maritime Festival is also expected to strengthen Papua’s cultural identity in the midst of modernisation. Through this festival, the younger generation is invited to recognise and preserve the cultural heritage of their ancestors, as well as become promotional agents for tourism and local Papuan products.
The government is also committed to continuing to support the development of MSMEs through various training and assistance programmes, so that local products can compete in national and international markets. This festival is one of the concrete steps in realising this vision. With all its potential, Papua is optimistic that it can continue to develop its tourism and MSME sectors through events such as the Maritime Festival. Through the synergy of culture and economy, Papua hopes to achieve sustainable prosperity for all its people.
West Papua Now 