RRI.CO.ID, Lampung - Vice Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, praised the Blangikhan Tradition in Central Lampung as a tangible example of tourism driven by community initiative. She emphasized that the tradition not only preserves cultural heritage but also strengthens local economic welfare through a culture- and spirituality-based tourism ecosystem.

Speaking at Nuwo Balak, Central Lampung, on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Ni Luh Puspa underlined that developing cultural and spiritual tourism is an integral part of Indonesia’s national tourism strategy. According to her, culture is the lifeblood of quality tourism-competitive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in national identity.

The involvement of MSME entrepreneurs in the Blangikhan festivities has further amplified the event’s positive impact. The presence of local products in every cultural celebration demonstrates how tradition can serve as both an economic driver and a platform for community empowerment.

“This is a real example of tourism that grows from the community, is managed collectively, and delivers direct benefits to local prosperity,” she said in an official statement.

Blangikhan, also known as Blangiran, is a local wisdom tradition of the Lampung community involving a self-purification ritual before entering the holy month of Ramadan. The procession includes bathing with water drawn from seven natural springs, symbolizing physical and spiritual cleansing.

Rooted in strong spiritual values, the tradition encourages people to strengthen relationships with others, prepare mentally and spiritually, and reflect ahead of Ramadan. Passed down through generations, Blangikhan was designated as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2019 by the Ministry of Education and Culture.

“This tradition proves that local wisdom is not merely a legacy of the past, but a strength for the future and a foundation for sustainable tourism development,” Ni Luh Puspa added.

The strengthening of local traditions aligns with Indonesia’s positive tourism performance throughout 2025. International tourist arrivals reached 15.39 million visits, growing 10.8% year-on-year. Meanwhile, domestic tourist trips hit 1.20 billion, up 17.55%.

Tourism’s contribution to the national economy also remains significant. In 2025, Indonesia’s economic growth stood at 5.11%, with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) valued at approximately Rp23,821 trillion. The tourism sector contributed 3.97% to national GDP. When including multiplier effects across related sectors, total contribution reached between 4.80% — equivalent to Rp946 trillion to Rp1,143 trillion.

Globally, Indonesia’s tourism quality continues to gain recognition. Throughout 2025, the country earned multiple international tourism awards. One of them was the designation of Pemuteran Tourism Village in Buleleng, Bali as one of the world’s best tourism villages by UN Tourism. This achievement reaffirms that Indonesia’s competitiveness lies in its cultural strength, traditions, and noble values.

“We encourage tourism villages in Lampung Province to enhance their quality and competitiveness, not only nationally but also internationally,” Ni Luh Puspa said.

The Ministry of Tourism is also opening collaboration with local governments, communities, and stakeholders to develop Blangikhan as a higher-quality and sustainable annual agenda. Other tourism potentials across Lampung Province are expected to be identified and developed in an integrated manner.

Meanwhile, Lampung Deputy Governor, Jihan Nurlela, stated that the province currently ranks ninth among the top ten regions contributing the highest tourist visits in Indonesia. However, she acknowledged ongoing challenges in building a more optimal and integrated tourism ecosystem.

The Lampung Provincial Government plans to develop a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) to stimulate investment inflows, aiming to spur regional growth and improve community welfare.

“We seek the support and prayers of the Deputy Minister of Tourism so that this program can be realized and bring tangible benefits to the people, particularly for the development of tourism in Lampung Province,” Jihan said.