Saturday, 11 July 2026
MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM - The Medan City Government showcased a strong Malay cultural atmosphere during the Gala Dinner marking the opening of the 18th National Working Meeting of the Association of Indonesian City Governments (APEKSI) held at Lapangan Merdeka, Medan, on Tuesday evening, June 30, 2026. The event became a significant moment that brought together 98 mayors and deputy mayors from various regions across Indonesia in a warm and familiar setting, while also emphasizing the commitment to strengthening inter-city collaboration through the preservation of cultural values.
Mayor of Medan, Rico Waas, alongside the Chairperson of the Medan City TP PKK, Airin Rico Waas, personally welcomed the attending municipal leaders. Guests were received in a festive atmosphere, with many wearing traditional Malay attire, further enhancing the ceremonial ambiance. The presence of delegations from across the Indonesian archipelago reflected the country's cultural diversity, symbolically united on a stage of national cohesion."In Malay tradition, this attire represents honor, politeness, wisdom, and responsibility in leadership as well as public service. The progress of a city must go hand in hand with the preservation of cultural values," he stated.
He further noted that urban development cannot rely solely on infrastructure and economic growth. Equally important, he said, is the preservation of cultural identity as the foundation for a strong and competitive society.The festival, he explained, is not only an art exhibition but also a space for cultural interaction among Malay communities from various regions and countries, strengthening cultural ties and shared identity.
Throughout the four-day event held from June 27 to June 30, a wide range of traditional performances, cultural exhibitions, and artistic showcases attracted thousands of visitors to Lapangan Merdeka.
Rico Waas emphasized that Gemes IX serves as a platform for cultural exchange that connects traditions while aligning with modern urban development. "Progress is easier to achieve when we move together. When 98 cities collaborate, Indonesia becomes stronger and more resilient," he said.As a gesture of appreciation, Rico Waas and Airin Rico Waas presented souvenirs to the attending mayors and deputy mayors, symbolizing the close ties between municipalities.
The Gala Dinner offered not only a formal dinner but also a diverse cultural program. A highlight of the evening was a colossal Nusantara dance performance that vividly showcased Indonesia's cultural richness.
The musical highlight was delivered by renowned singer Lyodra, who captivated the audience until the end of the evening.In parallel, a positive economic impact was recorded. According to the Medan City Tourism Office, Gemes IX generated daily transactions exceeding 300 million rupiah. Numerous local MSME booths offered culinary specialties, handicrafts, and fashion products, benefiting significantly from the high visitor turnout.
The event was attended by, among others, Deputy Mayor of Medan H. Zakiyuddin Harahap, APEKSI Executive Director representative Alwis Rustam, Speaker of the Medan City Council Wong Chun Sen, as well as representatives of diplomatic missions from friendly countries and other distinguished guests.With the successful hosting of the APEKSI XVIII Gala Dinner and Gemes IX, Medan further reinforces its role as a host of major national events that integrate culture, inter-city diplomacy, tourism promotion, and economic empowerment into a unified development concept. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Teguh Panjaitan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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