Cirebon Mayor Effendi Edo said on Friday that including MSMEs was part of the local government's efforts to revitalize the community’s economy and encourage public participation in the festivities.
"We are involving all elements of society, including MSMEs, in this year’s Cifest. It's one of the ways we aim to support MSMEs in Cirebon," he said.
He noted that MSMEs showed strong enthusiasm for the event, with the number of registrants exceeding the available quota. However, the number of participants had to be limited due to space constraints.
"If we didn’t set a limit, the number could have reached hundreds. We capped it at 76 tenants because of space and weather considerations," he explained.
Cifest 2025 will be held from June 27–29 at the site of a former cigarette factory in Cirebon, which now serves as a public space.
Edo said the location was chosen for its historical value, adding to the festival's appeal.
"In the future, we plan to develop this area into a culinary tourism center. Right now, it’s still being prepared," he said.
In addition to MSMEs, 18 universities in the city will take part in cultural and arts performances on the second night of the festival.
Visitors will be able to sample a variety of local culinary specialties, ranging from traditional dishes to new products from local MSMEs.
One of the festival’s highlights, the mayor added, is the distribution of 598 free cups of coffee, symbolizing Cirebon’s 598th anniversary.
"This coffee giveaway will take place tomorrow afternoon, marking our 598th year," he said.
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Translator: Fathnur Rohman, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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