Government Urges Chef Expo 2026 to Bolster Indonesian Gastronomy

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's Tourism Minister, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, expressed her appreciation for the "Chef Expo 2026" as a strategic collaborative space that strengthens our collective efforts to bring Indonesia's image and flavors to the world stage.

"It is an honor for me to be present at Chef Expo 2025 alongside Indonesian culinary experts who continue to shape and revitalize Indonesia's image and flavors," the Minister said after opening "Chef Expo 2026" in Jakarta on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

In addition to presenting a culinary industry exhibition, Chef Expo 2026 also showcases the culinary industry. The event also features various competitions for both professional and junior chefs. These competitions include Indonesian food presentations, modern plated desserts, cake decoration, fruit carving, a rijsttafel competition, and the Black Box Challenge, with Chef Juna and Chef Ragil as judges.

Minister Widiyanti stated that the culinary industry, or gastronomy, is closely linked to the tourism sector. Culinary arts are one of the main attractions that encourage tourists to travel and learn about a nation's cultural identity.

Therefore, the Minister of Tourism expressed his appreciation for Chef Expo 2026, which he considered not only a gathering place for culinary industry players but also a space of inspiration for the public to learn more about and appreciate Indonesia's culinary riches. "The more popular Indonesian food becomes, the greater Indonesia's appeal as a global tourist destination," she said.

According to her, Indonesia has significant potential to become a global gastronomic powerhouse. Its rich spices, cultural diversity, and culinary traditions passed down through generations have given rise to a variety of distinctive flavors unique to other nations.

She also reported that global recognition for Indonesian cuisine continues to grow. Several international awards, such as the New Destination Champion Awards 2026 from La Liste and the Top 10 Best Cuisine in the World 2025 from Taste Atlas, demonstrate the growing position of Indonesian cuisine globally.

To support the strengthening of national gastronomy, the government continues to accelerate development through various strategic programs across ministries and institutions. One such program is the "Serasa" program, which aims to expand the number of authentic Indonesian restaurants abroad as part of Indonesia's gastrodiplomacy.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Tourism is presenting the flagship Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy program as a national promotional platform that integrates Indonesian destinations, businesses, and culinary experiences. The program is implemented through various activities, such as media and KOL trips, destination and culinary promotions, gastronomy talks and forums, a Gastronomy Market to empower MSMEs, and various other side events.