Indonesia Hosts Global Cycling History Conference for First Time

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is using cycling diplomacy to promote sustainable mobility and cultural tourism as delegates from 40 countries gather in Central Java for the 35th International Cycling History Conference, from May 18-20, 2026.

The conference formed part of the broader Klaten International Cycling Festival 2026, which combines cycling, cultural tourism, and sustainability initiatives aimed at promoting environmentally friendly transportation.

Klaten Regent Hamenang Wajar Ismoyo described the event as a historic milestone for the region and for Indonesia, noting that the conference had previously been held across different parts of the world before arriving in Klaten for the first time.

“This is a great honor for us,” Hamenang said on Wednesday, May 20, as quoted by Antara, during the third day of the conference.

He emphasized that bicycles represent more than transportation, calling them symbols of friendship, history, sustainability, and humanity across nations. “Amid today’s global challenges, cycling culture has become a universal language that unites differences,” he said.

According to Hamenang, the conference discussions extended beyond cycling history to include environmental issues, public health, tourism, and the future of sustainable mobility.

The eight-day festival also allowed delegates to experience local life by visiting cultural villages, enjoying traditional cuisine, and witnessing community traditions throughout Klaten.

Hamenang said the event aimed to introduce Klaten internationally as an open, safe, and culturally rich region while encouraging residents to adopt cycling in their daily routines. He also invited civil servants living within five kilometers of their offices to commute by bicycle.

Central Java Provincial Secretary Sumarno echoed the message, describing bicycles as environmentally friendly transportation with important sporting, historical, and cultural value. “We want to encourage people to return to using bicycles as transportation,” he said.

Among the conference speakers were Dutch Ambassador to Indonesia Marc Gerritsen and German Ambassador to Indonesia Ralf Beste, both of whom shared experiences about cycling culture in their respective countries.

Marc Gerritsen praised local support for the event and discussed cycling safety awareness in the Netherlands, including bicycle proficiency tests for children and strong road safety culture among motorists. He expressed hope that similar practices could gradually be adopted in Indonesia, including in Klaten.

Following the conference, participants continued the festival through leisure cycling tours visiting tourism villages across Klaten Regency.

The Klaten International Cycling Festival 2026 runs from May 17-24 and includes events such as the Social and History Ride, Prambanan Heritage Ride, and National Costume Ride. ***