RRI.CO.ID, Lhokseumawe - The Ministry of Creative Economy has partnered with the Lhokseumawe City Government to organize the 2026 Ramadan Bazaar from February 25 to March 1 at Lapangan Hiraq. The event is part of efforts to strengthen the regional creative economy while creating a productive interaction space between creative economy players and the community. The initiative aims to drive inclusive, sustainable economic growth with direct impact on public welfare, while expanding promotional and market access for local MSMEs.

“Creative economy is the engine of the future economy. It contributes to regional income, creates jobs, circulates economic activity, and improves community welfare. This is where synergy and collaboration among all stakeholders are needed to support the 2026 Ramadan Bazaar,” Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, stated in his opening remarks.

Teuku Riefky affirmed that the 2026 Ramadan Bazaar is concrete proof of cross-sector collaboration between the Ministry of Creative Economy, local government, and creative economy actors from various subsectors. Carrying the theme “Blessed Ramadan, Creative Economy Thrives,” the event is designed to expand promotion and market access for local entrepreneurs while strengthening regional economic resilience.

“The Ministry appreciates the 2026 Ramadan Bazaar, which is not merely a gathering place during the holy month of Ramadan, but also a platform to introduce Lhokseumawe’s local brands so they can grow beyond national markets and eventually enter global markets. I hope the Ramadan Bazaar will not remain a seasonal event, but become a sustainable movement that strengthens the people’s economy and opens more business opportunities in the future,” he stated.

The event was also attended by Lhokseumawe Mayor Sayuti Abubakar. He noted that the bazaar marks a momentum for the revival of MSME creative economy activities in the aftermath of disasters, helping restore the region’s economic pulse.

“The 2026 Ramadan Bazaar serves as a momentum for the revival of MSME creative economy post-disaster and for restoring regional economic vitality as a space for economic activities and Ramadan outreach. We extend our appreciation and gratitude to the Ministry of Creative Economy for its support and commitment in strengthening and promoting local products from Lhokseumawe and surrounding areas,” he said.

The opening ceremony was symbolically marked by the beating of the traditional Acehnese musical instrument Rapai, accompanied by traditional dance and nasheed performances. The event continued with donations to 30 orphans. The Minister and the Mayor also visited several booths showcasing innovative products, while encouraging entrepreneurs to continue strengthening community-driven economic initiatives.

Beyond commercial transactions, the 2026 Ramadan Bazaar also featured social and religious programs. A creativity and preaching stage was provided, along with various faith-themed competitions such as the adhan contest, short Qur’anic verse memorization, young preacher competition, and Tahfiz Al-Qur’an contest.