RRI.CO.ID, Banyuwangi - Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is supporting Kemiren Tourism Village in Banyuwangi to achieve the Best Tourism Village status from UN Tourism. The effort was highlighted during Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana's working visit to Banyuwangi on Saturday and Sunday, July 25-26, 2026.

Kemiren Village was previously selected for the Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme 2025 by UN Tourism. The program provides special assistance for tourism villages with potential to improve governance and meet international standards.

During the visit, Widiyanti explored the Osing traditional village area and interacted with local residents. She appreciated the community's creativity in preserving local traditions and cultural heritage.

The minister said the assistance is expected to help Kemiren achieve international recognition as a tourism village. She delivered the statement while visiting the traditional Osing houses in Kemiren.

“Hopefully, after receiving assistance, Kemiren Village can achieve the Best Tourism Village title,” she said.

Widiyanti also visited Sanggar Genjah Arum and experienced various traditional Banyuwangi foods and beverages. She tasted local specialties, including rujak soto, pecel pitik, Osing coffee, and traditional cucur cake.

She also tried traditional coffee roasting using a clay pan and a wood-fired stove. The activities showcased Kemiren's efforts to preserve Osing culture through culinary traditions and local experiences.

Banyuwangi Regent, Ipuk Fiestiandani, appreciated the Ministry of Tourism's continued assistance for Kemiren Tourism Village. She said the village's unique Osing culture is a major strength to attract international visitors.

Ipuk added that the support will help Kemiren become more prepared to welcome tourists from around the world. The development will continue while maintaining the village's cultural identity and traditional values.