RRI.CO.ID, Ternate - Indonesia's North Maluku Province opened Hiri Festival 2026 to promote tourism and the local creative economy. The festival began on Hiri Island, Ternate, on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

The event combines sports, culinary exhibitions, cultural performances, and tourism promotion in one festival. It was organized through collaboration with Universitas Gadjah Mada's Community Service Program (KKN-PPM) 2026.

North Maluku Vice Governor, Sarbin Sehe, officially opened the festival at Togolobe Port. He was welcomed with the traditional Soya-Soya dance performed by the local community.

He said this year's festival highlights local potential through community empowerment and digital technology. He said the approach supports North Maluku's long-term tourism development.

"This year's festival theme is very interesting because it focuses on developing local potential through community empowerment and digital technology. This is the direction of development we want to continue promoting in North Maluku," Sarbin said.

He said Hiri Island offers coastal scenery, historical heritage, living traditions, and distinctive local cuisine. These assets should be managed to create greater economic benefits for local communities.

Sarbin also stressed that digitalization has become essential for tourism promotion and local businesses. He encouraged MSMEs to market products digitally and improve access to tourism information.

"Digitalization is no longer an option, but a necessity. MSMEs must market their products digitally, and tourism destinations must provide accessible information to remain competitive," he added.

The vice governor also called for sustainable tourism development that protects nature and local culture. He urged residents to preserve beaches, improve waste management, and support local MSME products.