Minang Festival 2026 Demonstrates the Cultural Harmony and Economic Strength of Minang Perantau

Jambi – The cultural diversity that thrives in Jambi City has once again demonstrated its role as a social force and a driver of the region’s economy. This was reflected in the organization of the Minang Festival Jambi 2026, an event that not only served as a space for Minangkabau cultural expression but also as a platform for empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and strengthening inter-ethnic harmony in the city.

Held for the first time in Jambi City, the festival took place from 4–6 June 2026 at Taman Banjuran Budayo. It featured 43 MSME tenants showcasing a variety of flagship products, ranging from authentic Minangkabau cuisine to creative products from the migrant community.

The festival was officially opened by Jambi Mayor Maulana, accompanied by Deputy Mayor Diza Hazra Aljosha. Various Minangkabau cultural performances, such as Tari Pasambahan, tambua, silek tuo, and tari piring, became a powerful symbol of how tradition continues to live and flourish within a diverse society.

Mayor Maulana emphasized that the diversity possessed by Jambi City is not merely a social reality, but a development asset that must be continuously nurtured and developed.

According to him, Taman Banjuran Budayo was built as a public space that gives all cultural communities the opportunity to showcase their creativity and strengthen their respective cultural identities.

“The Jambi City Government supports all positive activities that promote cultural preservation regardless of ethnic or tribal background. This space was indeed prepared to serve as a venue for the cultural expression of the community,” he said.

Maulana noted that the Minangkabau community has made important contributions to the development of Jambi City, particularly in trade, the economy, education, and social life. Therefore, preserving Minangkabau culture is not only important for the migrant community but also forms part of the overall cultural richness of Jambi City.

In addition to its cultural aspects, the festival also delivered tangible economic impact. Dozens of MSME operators gained the opportunity to expand their markets and introduce their flagship products to a wider audience.

Various signature Minangkabau dishes such as sate Padang, pical, gulai, and other traditional foods became the main attraction, drawing visitors throughout the festival.

“The presence of dozens of MSME tenants shows that cultural activities can also drive the community’s economy. Therefore, the government will continue to support similar events so they can grow and develop,” Maulana said.

He also viewed the Minang Festival as a space for silaturahmi (reconnecting and strengthening bonds) among the Minangkabau people who have migrated to Jambi. With a significantly large Minang community in the city, the festival serves as a means to strengthen social ties while easing homesickness for their homeland.

Furthermore, the Jambi City Government is preparing a new public space spanning approximately 9 hectares in the Danau Selincah–Kajang Lako area, designed to become a center for community activities, creative economy, arts and culture, and tourism.

The area will be equipped with various supporting facilities, including a 1.4-kilometer jogging track, thematic gardens, an iconic bridge, and water tourism attractions, which are expected to become a new destination for Jambi City.

According to Maulana, the development of this public space is part of a strategy to strengthen the community-based creative economy and tourism sectors, involving various cultural groups in Jambi City.

He expressed hope that the Minang Festival can grow into an annual event and be included in the regional tourism calendar, thereby attracting more tourists and expanding economic opportunities for the community.

“Diversity is the strength of Jambi City. Through activities like this, we maintain harmony, strengthen unity, and open greater economic opportunities for the community,” he said.

The Minang Festival 2026 serves as proof that culture does not merely function as a heritage to be preserved, but can also serve as an instrument of development that strengthens regional identity, drives the community’s economy, and deepens brotherhood amid diversity.