VOINews, Sulawesi: The 2024 Lake Poso Festival has once again showcased the immense cultural and natural wealth of the region, with Indonesia's Law and Human Rights Minister, Supratman Andi Agtas, emphasizing its potential to drive sustainable economic growth both regionally and nationally. Speaking on Saturday, the minister highlighted the untapped resources of Lake Poso, which can significantly contribute to Indonesia’s broader economic development.
"Lake Poso offers an abundance of resources that not only support the local economy but also have the potential to bolster national economic growth. This is why it is essential for us to continue developing this area strategically," Minister Agtas stated during the festival.
Held in conjunction with the 2024 *National Movement for Products Made in Indonesia* (Gernas BBI) and the *Proud to Travel in Indonesia* (BBWI) initiatives, the Lake Poso Festival is a testament to how Poso’s cultural heritage and natural beauty can become central elements in fostering sustainable economic activities. On Friday, October 11, Minister Agtas attended the opening ceremony of the festival, underscoring its importance.
The minister pointed out that the festival, combined with the Gernas BBI-BBWI programs, reflects Poso's potential as an economic powerhouse rooted in local traditions and the environment. "This festival clearly demonstrates that the cultural and natural wealth of Poso can serve as a sustainable economic engine. It’s a model for how local festivals can bring long-term benefits to the community," Agtas noted.
Lake Poso, the third-largest lake in Indonesia, spans 36,000 hectares and offers stunning natural scenery that has made it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Agtas believes that with its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, the area has the potential to become a world-class destination for creative industries, further boosting local and national economic development.
The festival is designed to promote the local products of Poso and highlight the region’s unique tourist attractions. Agtas stressed the importance of supporting locally made products and developing tourism in the region as part of a broader national strategy to strengthen the economy. “It is crucial to support domestic products and tap into the local tourism potential that regions like Poso have to offer,” the minister added.
Furthermore, Minister Agtas emphasized the need for collaboration between the government, business sectors, and local communities to fully harness the potential of Lake Poso and other similar regions. Such cooperation, he argued, would be key to advancing Indonesia’s economy through the promotion of locally produced goods and boosting domestic tourism.
The 2024 Lake Poso Festival is being held from October 11 to 13 at the Lake Poso Pavilion in Tentena, Poso District. The event, now in its annual cycle, is a celebration of the region’s cultural diversity and natural beauty, and serves as a platform for promoting locally made products while encouraging tourism and economic growth./ANTARA/VOI
