"Indonesia is a country with vast potential, from natural and cultural wealth to the richness and authenticity of its cuisine. Today, we direct our attention to gastronomy," she remarked in a statement cited in Jakarta on Wednesday.
Speaking at the opening of the WIG Talkshow in Bali on Tuesday (September 30), Wardhana explained that the program was designed to intensify the global promotion of Indonesia's culinary potential through curated gastronomic tourism packages.
Launched earlier in Jakarta, WIG is expected to attract renowned international chefs to collaborate with Indonesian culinary icons. The program continued in Bali with a series of activities, including a talkshow that explored five themes surrounding gastronomy and the food and beverage industry.
The minister added that Bali was chosen as a pilot project alongside Jakarta, as the island's community deeply values the connection between culinary heritage, spirituality, and culture.
"We believe that gastronomic experiences in Bali feel more authentic and meaningful. Moreover, Bali has embraced sustainable practices through farm-to-table initiatives, organic farming, and community-based coffee plantations and culinary tourism activities," she noted.
Similarly, Tourism Ministry Deputy for Industry and Investment Rizki Handayani Mustafa emphasized that WIG aims to strengthen Indonesia's position as a captivating gastronomic destination.
Meanwhile, Head of the Bali Tourism Office Wayan Sumarajaya expressed optimism that the program would foster strategic collaboration between the government, business actors, and culinary communities.
He noted that such synergy could bring tangible benefits to local culinary businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises.
In 2024, restaurants contributed Rp27.6 trillion (around US$1.6 billion) to Bali's regional gross domestic product (GDP), while food and beverage manufacturing generated Rp9.71 trillion (US$581 million). Together, these sectors accounted for 12.5 percent of the province's GDP.
As of July 2025, Indonesia had welcomed 8.53 million international tourists, with 3.97 million visiting Bali, representing 46.5 percent of the total.
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Translator: Hreeloita D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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