"The Festival contributes to the creative economy's development," the Governor said in a written statement in Serang City, Banten Province on Friday.
He explained that these contributions include creating jobs, stimulating supporting industries, increasing tourism, strengthening cultural identity, as well as utilizing digital technology.
At the opening ceremony at Plaza Aspirasi, KP3B Curug, Serang on Thursday, Soni hoped that the festival would become part of the creative economy ecosystem, not only adding value to the economy but also strengthening the nation's cultural character.
"Hopefully, in the future, this can become an annual event to enhance the potential of tourism destinations in Banten Province," he said.
Soni believed that theater festivals are not just entertainment but also a space for expression to convey moral, social, and cultural messages and even constructive criticism.
Therefore, Banten, with its rich traditions and arts, should make this festival an activity to revitalize the spirit of arts, teach life values, enrich imagination, and foster cultural dialogue within the community.
"The Banten Theater Festival is also an important platform for the younger generation to express their creativity," he said.
According to him, young people need to balance the busyness of digital technology with fostering social sensitivity and empathy for the nation's culture.
Meanwhile, the Director of the 2025 Banten Theater Festival, Imaf M Liwa, explained that the event, which took place from September 18–20, featured various theater performances, public dialogues, sign language workshops, visual arts exhibitions, and also an MSME bazaar.
"It is hoped that it will strengthen the theater ecosystem and instill a love for the arts, particularly theater, in the young generation," he said.
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Translator: Devi Nindy Sari Ramadhan, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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