Indonesian MSMEs Showcase Culinary Heritage at Borneo Festival in Malaysia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are using the Taste of Borneo Cultural Carnival (TOBC) 4.0 in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, as a platform to expand market reach and strengthen cultural diplomacy.

From July 2–12, 2026, they introduced the flavors of West Sumatra’s beef rendang and diverse Indonesian coffee varieties, alongside traditional crafts and performances.

Supported by the Indonesian Consulate General in Kuching, the initiative reflects a broader effort to integrate economic and cultural promotion.

Seven SMEs from West Sumatra presented around 250 kilograms of signature products, including rendang, Minangkabau delicacies, spices, textiles, and handicrafts.

Complementing the culinary showcase, the Rumah Pintar Panyakalan dance troupe from Solok performed traditional Minangkabau dances, offering audiences a glimpse of Indonesia’s rich heritage.

Indonesian Consul General in Kuching Abdullah Zulkifli emphasized that TOBC is more than a food festival; it is a celebration of shared traditions and values across Borneo.

He highlighted West Sumatra as a leading destination with natural beauty, Minangkabau culture, and globally recognized cuisine.

“Taste of Borneo is a celebration of diversity that strengthens friendship and cooperation across borders,” he said, as quoted by Antara, inviting Sarawak residents and international visitors to experience West Sumatra firsthand.

The participation was organized in collaboration with GEBU Minang and the West Sumatra Cooperative and SME Office. GEBU Minang Chairman Oesman Sapta Odang described the event as a contribution to empowering MSMEs and promoting Minangkabau culture globally.

Delegation leader Liza Mustafa Abubakar expressed hopes that the festival would open export opportunities, attract investment, and increase international tourism to West Sumatra.

TOBC 4.0 brought together participants from Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, and China, making it one of Sarawak’s largest cultural and culinary festivals.

For Indonesia, the event reinforced the role of creative economy and cultural diplomacy as instruments to deepen people‑to‑people ties with Malaysia while enhancing the competitiveness of Indonesian MSMEs in international markets. ***