Turonggo Yakso to Represent Indonesia at 2026 Yeosu Expo

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Turonggo Yakso, a traditional art form from Trenggalek Regency in East Java, will represent Indonesia at the 2026 World Island Exhibition, which will be held in Yeosu, South Korea, from 5 September to 4 November 2026. The participation is part of an effort to introduce Indonesia's rich arts and cultural heritage to the international community through the tourism exhibition, which will be featuring delegates from more than 200 countries.

At the exhibition, themed "Island, Connecting the Ocean and the Future," the Indonesian delegation is scheduled to perform the opening dance, showcasing the cultural richness of the archipelago before participants and visitors from around the world. House of Representatives Commission VII member Novita Hardini said the participation presents an important opportunity for Trenggalek and the Mataraman region to promote local culture while strengthening Indonesia's image as a nation rich in artistic and cultural heritage.

"This is a golden opportunity for Trenggalek and the Mataraman region to show the world that Indonesia possesses extraordinary cultural wealth. Turonggo Yakso is not merely a performing art, but an identity, a history, and a source of pride for the community that deserves wider recognition," Novita said in a written statement received in Jakarta on Friday, 19 June 2026.

According to her, Trenggalek's presence at the global forum is not only part of cultural diplomacy but also opens opportunities for the development of the region's tourism and creative economy sectors.

"Culture should not be treated as mere entertainment. It must serve as an economic force capable of driving tourism, creating jobs, and improving people's welfare. Therefore, we continue to encourage regions with potential such as Trenggalek to gain opportunities to perform on the world stage," she said.

In addition to Turonggo Yakso, the Indonesian delegation will also introduce various cultural treasures from the Mataraman region, including the culture of Ponorogo, representing the diversity of East Java's traditions. Novita expressed hope that Trenggalek's participation in the international event would serve as a gateway for broader recognition of Indonesian culture at the global level.

Turonggo Yakso is a traditional jaranan dance originating from Dongko District, Trenggalek Regency, created around 1979 by local artists Pamrih and Supriyanto. Characterized by woven bamboo horses featuring demon-faced figures (yakso), the dance traces its roots to the Baritan tradition, which serves as an expression of gratitude for the community's harvest.