Karang Asam Festival 2025 included in Tourism Ministry's KEN

The Karang Asam Festival in South Tanjung Enim Village Square, Lawang Kidul District, Muara Enim Regency, South Sumatra Province has been included in the Tourism Ministry's Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) calendar of cultural festivals for 2025.

Various local traditions, such as the Mandi Kupek to the Ayek custom, are once again showcased at the festival—which was held until Sep. 7, 2025.

In addition to serving as a space for cultural preservation, the festival also provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work. Dance performances, traditional music, and Muara Enim Regency's unique cultural attractions are presented in an interesting format to draw tourists.

"Culture is our identity. We must preserve and respect local wisdom so that future generations will continue to know it," said South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru.

Herman expressed his utmost appreciation for the festival, as the governor attended to witness the grandeur of the event firsthand.

"I want to see for myself how this festival has grown from the village level to become a KEN event. This is proof that our culture has national appeal," he stated.

Herman added that Karang Asam Festival's inclusion in KEN 2025 is a recognition that local activities can be nationally competitive.

"For me, this is an extraordinary achievement. Let's continue to maintain and develop it together," he emphasized.

Tourism Ministry Assistant Deputy Regional Events Reza Fahlevi also expressed his appreciation. He called the Karang Asam Festival one of the best cultural events in Indonesia.

"This event belongs not only to Muara Enim, but also to the nation. Therefore, the central government fully supports it so that it continues to develop," he said.

Muara Enim Regent Edison added that the festival was born from the initiative of residents who want to preserve culture through creative and professional means. He also hopes this event will become a cultural icon of Muara Enim.

"This festival is a reflection of community togetherness. Culture, art, and the economy are combined into one strength [of the local region]," he concluded.