Not Just Beaches, Bali Set to Become World's Gourmet Paradise

Bali is not only renowned for its enchanting beaches and rich culture but is now also establishing itself as a global culinary stage. Through the flagship program "Wonderful Indonesia Gourmet (WIG)", the government aims to position Indonesia as a world-class gastronomy destination.

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana emphasized that Indonesia's culinary heritage possesses significant strength to compete globally.

"Indonesia is a nation with extraordinary potential, from its nature and culture to its rich, diverse, and authentic culinary heritage. Today, we focus our attention on gastronomy," she stated in Jakarta on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

The program was launched via the Wonderful Indonesia Gourmet Talkshow in Bali on Tuesday (Sept 30). During the event, Widiyanti stated that WIG is the initial step to present culinary tourism packages in Jakarta, Bali, and other destinations for both international and domestic tourists. 

She hopes that collaboration with international chefs will further introduce the archipelago's culinary icons to the world.

Bali was not chosen arbitrarily; it was selected as a pilot destination alongside Jakarta due to its unique added value. 

For Balinese society, food is not merely about taste; it is deeply connected to spirituality, community, and culture.

"This makes the gastronomic journey in Bali feel more authentic and meaningful. Bali also plays a role in sustainability practices through farm-to-table initiatives, organic farming, and community-based coffee plantations and culinary tourism," said Widiyanti.

Economic data also underscores the importance of this sector. In 2024, Bali's Regional Gross Domestic Product (GRDP) from restaurant services reached Rp27.6 trillion, while food and beverage manufacturing contributed Rp9.71 trillion, or 12.5 percent of Bali's total GRDP. 

It's no surprise that Bali is a magnet for tourists. Of the 8.53 million international visitors up to July 2025, nearly half, or 3.97 million, chose the Island of the Gods as their primary destination.

Deputy Minister for Industry and Investment Rizki Handayani Mustafa affirmed that WIG is designed to strengthen Indonesia's position on the global culinary stage. 

Meanwhile, Head of the Bali Tourism Office Wayan Sumarajaya believes this program opens doors for strategic collaboration between the government, businesses, communities, and culinary MSMEs.

“This is expected to elevate local culinary offerings, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enabling them to upgrade, gain wider recognition, be cherished, and be acknowledged globally,” he said.

Lastly, Kevindra Soemantri from the Wonderful Indonesia Gourmet Committee stressed the importance of making gastronomy part of the nation's identity.

“WIG is expected to attract quality tourists and talented international culinary talents, thereby building global reputation and trust,” he stated.

Through WIG, Indonesian cuisine is not just about delicious meals; it also reflects the nation's culture, economy, and identity, ready to be presented to the world. (Antara)