RRI.CO.ID, Lebak – The annual Seba Baduy tradition has once again been included in the Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) 2026, a recognition that underscores its cultural significance and strengthens the profile of Lebak Regency, Banten, on both the national and international stage.

KEN is a national program that curates and promotes flagship cultural, creative, and tourism events across the country. It serves as a strategic tool to boost tourism, preserve local traditions, and drive regional economic growth.

Head of Lebak Culture and Tourism Office, Yosep Muhamad Holis, described the inclusion as a strategic opportunity to boost the region’s tourism appeal. He said Seba Baduy carries deep meaning in reinforcing the identity of the Baduy indigenous community while generating substantial economic benefits for locals.

“This event is not only about cultural performance, but also about strengthening identity and driving the local economy,” Yosep said in Rangkasbitung on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

He noted that the local government bears a major responsibility to ensure Seba Baduy remains a fixture in future KEN agendas, both to preserve the tradition and to improve event quality.

Eight key criteria -- including event management, cultural promotion, visitor numbers, and economic impact for MSMEs -- must be consistently met. Sustainability and community involvement are also central indicators.

Since its launch, the program has been continuously evaluated to meet these standards, with Yosep expressing hope that Seba Baduy could eventually rank among the nation’s top 10 cultural tourism events.

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has officially unveiled KEN 2026, featuring 125 flagship events across 38 provinces -- an increase from 110 in 2025. The expansion reflects growing national attention to culture‑based tourism.

For Lebak Regency, the inclusion of Seba Baduy is expected to broaden recognition of the tradition while delivering lasting benefits for cultural preservation and community welfare. (Annaila Azzahra/Sri Wahyuni)