The Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, is striving to nominate Ponorogo regency, Indonesia, with its renowned performing arts, as a representative of Indonesia for the "UNESCO Creative Cities Network" (UCCN) in the upcoming period. The effort is based on Ponorogo's potential in the creative economy, particularly its performing arts, which can be a driving force for other creative subsectors. The central government has already designated Ponorogo as a creative regency after the evaluation process in 2022, and now it aims to take the next step to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
According to Minister Sandiaga, this initiative will further strengthen the creative economy ecosystem in Ponorogo. Joining the UCCN is not a competition but rather a way to network and build communities with similar cities in other countries worldwide, creating many benefits for Ponorogo. The goal is to create opportunities for business, boost the local economy, and create around 4.4 million job opportunities by 2024.
To be nominated for the UCCN, certain aspects need attention, such as ensuring a smooth transition process and continuous education for the younger generation to preserve and globalize Reog, which is a prominent product of Ponorogo's creative economy. The local government and Kemenparekraf (Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy) are working together to facilitate and support the international recognition and sustainability of Reog, which plays a significant role in Ponorogo's creative industry. The Workshop KaTa Kreatif held in Ponorogo is part of the ongoing series of events, with the program set to reach 35 selected regencies/cities across Indonesia.
