RRI.CO.ID, Singaraja - The Buleleng Regency Administration officially opened the inaugural Singa Kren Fest 2026 at the Old Buleleng Harbor on Friday, May 8, 2026. The three-day festival serves as a platform for community creativity while strengthening the local creative economy in Singaraja.

The opening ceremony, led by Buleleng Regent I Nyoman Sutjidra and Deputy Regent Gede Supriatna, drew enthusiastic crowds of residents who filled the heritage harbor area. The lively event was attended by members of the regional legislature, local government officials, community leaders, and cultural figures.

In his remarks, Regent Sutjidra expressed appreciation to all parties who supported the festival’s debut. He highlighted the collaboration between government, creative communities, MSMEs, artists, and residents as the driving force behind the event’s success.

“Singa Kren Fest 2026 is not only an entertainment stage for the community, but also a space for preserving local arts and culture, fostering creativity, and driving the people’s economy. The heritage sites of Singaraja and the Old Buleleng Harbor are cultural assets that hold unique appeal for visitors,” Sutjidra said.

He further emphasized Buleleng’s potential in governance, trade, tourism, and creative industries, noting that heritage areas are key assets for boosting tourism growth. The rise of MSMEs and creative communities, he added, is vital to sustaining the local economy.

The festival features a diverse program, including cultural performances, local MSME exhibitions, and traditional culinary showcases. It highlights innovations that blend traditional culture with modern creativity, bringing the Old Buleleng Harbor to life with art and community activities.

Festival Chair and Buleleng Subdistrict Head explained that Singa Kren Fest 2026 carries the theme “Purwaning Sastrotsawa Pragati”, which reflects cultural values, traditions, and philosophy as the foundation of societal progress.

The festival is expected to spark a revival of community creativity rooted in local culture. “This festival is also a collaborative space for creative communities, local entrepreneurs, artists, and youth to showcase regional potential to a wider audience,” he said.

As part of the event, the Buleleng Regency Administration awarded Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) certificates to 13 community representatives, recognizing their creativity and innovation in supporting the growth of the local creative economy.

The administration hopes the recognition will inspire more works and innovations for Buleleng’s advancement. (Diva Rifdah/EN)