Indonesia nominates Bantul and Padang for UNESCO Creative Cities Network 2027

The Indonesian Ministry of Creative Economy has officially nominated Bantul Regency and Padang City to represent the country in the 2027 UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) selection.

Bantul has been proposed under the Crafts and Folk Art subsector, highlighting its natural fiber crafts including bamboo, water hyacinth, and banana stalks. The region's craft sector is noted for its export orientation, reaching over 30 countries and contributing 14.77 percent to the local gross regional domestic product. The sector also emphasizes circular economy principles and provides opportunities for women and people with disabilities.

Padang City has been nominated under the Gastronomy subsector.

Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya stated that the nominations aim to strengthen regional creative economy ecosystems to create jobs and increase national GDP. The Ministry plans to provide comprehensive assistance, including dossier refinement and global networking coordination through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.