Papuaaround.com – The Department of Tourism and Culture (Disparbud) of Jayapura Regency is taking strategic steps to revitalize the Lake Sentani Festival (FDS) as part of its broader efforts to stimulate the local economy.
Elisa Yarusabra, Head of the Tourism and Culture Office, emphasized that FDS is a flagship annual event with a significant economic impact on the region. After a period of inactivity, the festival is set to return with a more focused and structured approach. Its goal is to highlight the cultural identity and tourism potential of the communities around Lake Sentani and the wider Jayapura Regency.
“FDS is our top priority. Through this festival, we aim to showcase our region’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential to the wider public,” said Yarusabra.
In addition to reviving the festival, the tourism office is also planning to reassess underutilized tourism assets. This includes re-mapping tourist areas based on the Regional Tourism Development Master Plan (RIPDA) of Jayapura. The objective is to identify promising destinations that have yet to receive adequate attention or investment.
To boost locally generated revenue from tourism, Disparbud will also focus on increasing retribution income from existing tourist and recreational sites. The strategy involves supporting small yet popular destinations to elevate their quality and improve their contributions to the regional economy.
“We want to assist small but busy tourist sites so they can grow and contribute more significantly to local revenue. We will provide direct support to help them upgrade and become more competitive,” Yarusabra added.
The Jayapura Regency Government believes that by reviving FDS and developing untapped tourism potential, the region’s economy can recover and provide tangible benefits for its residents. This initiative aligns with the broader vision and mission of the Regent of Jayapura, who has placed cultural and tourism development at the core of local progress.
With a more targeted approach and support from various stakeholders, the Tourism and Culture Office remains optimistic that the Lake Sentani Festival will once again become a proud cultural and tourism showcase—one capable of driving sustainable economic growth in Jayapura Regency.
