Denpasar (ANTARA) - Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has encouraged micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Denpasar, Bali, to strengthen the national creative economy, Denpasar Mayor I Gusti Ngurah Jaya Negara said in a statement released on Saturday.

During his visit to Denpasar, Vice President Gibran not only attended cultural performances at the Bali Arts Festival (PKB) but also visited MSME booths located around the Art Center area.

According to the mayor, the Vice President also interacted with local artisans and encouraged them to continue producing quality handmade products that can compete in broader markets.

Jaya Negara said that Gibran appreciated the crafts and MSME products showcased at the Bali Arts Festival, noting their creativity and potential.

The Vice President also emphasized the importance of such exhibitions in encouraging the public to use locally made products, expressing the hope that the products can gain international recognition.

The Denpasar Mayor said he believes that the Vice President’s visit will further motivate the public to support and purchase local MSME products.

“Mr. Vice President’s visit to the MSME booths at the Bali Arts Festival has the potential to inspire the people of Denpasar to continue supporting Bali’s top local products and further boost the creative economy sector,” he added.

After touring the exhibition area, Vice President Gibran also visited the Ardha Chandra stage, where the Barong Ket Dance Competition was taking place as part of the 47th Bali Arts Festival (PKB XLVII).

The event featured cultural delegations from several regencies and cities.

At the venue, the Vice President greeted members of the public who had filled the audience seats since afternoon.

In front of thousands of Balinese spectators, Gibran expressed his admiration and appreciation for the public’s enthusiasm in supporting cultural performances such as the Barong Ket competition.

“I’m amazed by the enthusiasm of the people attending this cultural show. The event was scheduled to start at 7 p.m., but the seats were already packed by late afternoon,” he observed.

VP Gibran also reminded all citizens of the importance of collectively preserving and nurturing Bali’s tourism industry, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision to advance domestic tourism growth.

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