RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The synergy between Indonesia's culinary heritage and its global tourism appeal took center stage at the opening of Chef Expo 2026, as the government seeks to transform the nation’s flavors into a powerful diplomatic tool. Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, emphasized that the event serves as a critical strategic hub to accelerate Indonesia's journey toward becoming a dominant force in global gastronomy.

During the opening of Chef Expo 2026 at the NICE PIK 2 venue in Jakarta on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, Minister Widiyanti highlighted that culinary identity is often the primary magnet drawing international travelers to a destination. She asserted that the nation's vast archipelago of spices and generational traditions provides an unmatched competitive edge.

“The culture of Indonesian gastronomy and tourism are two inseparable entities. The more popular Indonesian food becomes, the greater the attraction of Indonesia as a world tourism destination,” said Minister Widiyanti in an official release confirmed in Jakarta on Thursday, May 7, 2026.

As reported by Antara, this push for global recognition is backed by significant momentum, including the New Destination Champion Awards 2026 from La Liste and a spot in the Top 10 Best Cuisine in the World 2025 by Taste Atlas.

The Minister noted that as Indonesian cuisine gains traction, it paves the way for more authentic restaurants to open abroad, creating jobs for local talent and sparking interest in domestic travel.

According to her, this expansion will eventually create a multiplier effect on the national economy through increased bookings in accommodation, transportation, and souvenir sectors.

To support this vision, the government is accelerating the Serasa program, a cross-ministerial initiative aimed at increasing the number of authentic Indonesian restaurants globally as part of a broader gastro-diplomacy strategy. Complementing this is the Ministry’s flagship Wonderful Indonesia Gastronomy platform, which integrates destinations and businesses into a unified promotional campaign.

The Ministry has also introduced a sustainable restaurant category under the Wonderful Indonesia Awards to honor eco-friendly culinary practices. Running from May 6 to 9, 2026, Chef Expo 2026 features a star-studded lineup including Chef Juna, Chef Chandra Yudasswara, and the legendary Bunda Sisca Soewitomo.

Beyond industry exhibitions, the event hosts competitions for both professional and junior chefs. These contests range from traditional rijsttafel and fruit carving to the highly anticipated Black Box Challenge, judged by Chef Juna and Chef Ragil, all aimed at nurturing the next generation of Indonesia's culinary ambassadors. ***