Fajarasia.id – The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Tourism Office has submitted eight flagship cultural and tourism events to be considered for inclusion in the Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) 2026, Indonesia’s national calendar of signature festivals curated by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.
The proposed events represent diverse regions across NTB, from Lombok to Bima and Dompu, and are currently undergoing the ministry’s curation process. Head of NTB Tourism Office, Ahmad Nur Aulia, emphasized that the submission follows national standards and requires strong collaboration between provincial authorities, local governments, and event organizers.
“Each region is encouraged to propose its best events. The process is still under review, and we are waiting for recommendations from the ministry,” Aulia said on Thursday (November 20, 2025).
In 2025, NTB had four events included in the KEN calendar. For 2026, the number could double, with eight events now under consideration. Aulia noted that while the iconic Bau Nyale Festival has not yet been submitted due to coordination issues, other traditions such as Lebaran Topat in Lombok Barat remain strong candidates.
He stressed that every event must demonstrate tangible impacts on tourism and the local economy, including increased visitor arrivals, hotel occupancy, homestay utilization, and broader economic growth.
“Designing an event must show clear impact—visitor numbers, accommodation use, and ultimately contributions to regional economic growth,” Aulia explained.
The following festivals have been proposed for KEN 2026:
- Alunan Budaya Festival – East Lombok
- Festival Sangiang Api – Bima Regency
- Perang Topat – West Lombok
- Gili Festival – North Lombok
- Festival Rimpu Mantika – Bima City
- Festival Lakey – Dompu Regency
- Festival Sukerare Begawe Jelo Nyensek – Central Lombok
- Mulud Adat Bayan – North Lombok
From the fiery rituals of Sangiang Api in Bima to the vibrant Gili Festival in Lombok Utara, each event offers a unique window into NTB’s living traditions. Surf enthusiasts can look forward to Festival Lakey in Dompu, while culture lovers will be drawn to the intricate weaving traditions celebrated in Sukerare Festival.
With this expanded calendar, NTB aims to position itself not only as a destination of natural beauty—famed for its beaches, diving spots, and Mount Rinjani—but also as a hub of cultural richness that travelers can experience year-round.
