RRI.CO.ID. Jakarta: The City Government of Banda Aceh is working to grow its global partnerships. The main goal is to strengthen the city's position as the “Perfume City of Indonesia.” A big step was taken when Banda Aceh signed a Letter of Intent, or LoI, with Grasse, France. Grasse is known around the world as the capital of perfume.

This partnership is based on a shared vision. Both cities want to develop aromatic plants and the perfume industry. They believe this can help create sustainable economic growth. Grasse already has a complete ecosystem for perfume. This includes education, research, innovation, production, and global marketing.

Banda Aceh is now building its own identity as the “Perfume City of Indonesia.” The city has strong resources like patchouli and other aromatic plants. These local materials are the base for developing a new perfume industry that can compete internationally.

Mayor of Banda Aceh, Illiza Sa’aduddin Djamal, said that perfume brought the two cities together. But more importantly, they are building a bridge for collaboration. Both cities want to turn local potential into sustainable economic growth. She hopes the partnership will create real programs that help people in both cities.

Mayor of Grasse, Jérôme Viaud, also welcomed the LoI. He sees it as the start of a long-term partnership. Even though the cities are far apart, they share the same vision. They both want to develop local resources and add value for their communities. The LoI is not the final goal. It is the first step for exchange, trust, and sharing experience.

The cooperation between Banda Aceh and Grasse will focus on four main areas. First, it focuses developing human resources in perfume and essential oils. Secondly, it aims to build perfume-themed tourism. Thirdly, the partnership will promote creative industries using local materials. Fourth is sharing knowledge and technology for processing and standardizing aromatic products. This LoI is also the start of bigger projects in the future.

Consul General of Indonesia in Marseille, Dian Kusumaningsih, said this partnership shows how local governments can create new opportunities. These opportunities are in economy, education, and innovation. She hopes the collaboration becomes a model for other cities. It can also make the relationship between Indonesia and France stronger. Since May 2025, Banda Aceh has worked with SMEs, universities, and global partners to grow the perfume industry and create new jobs.

Source : PR Consulate of Indonesia in Marseille