South Kalimantan Tourism Islamic Fair 2025: New Breakthrough for Religious Tourism in Banjarmasin

On the banks of the Martapura River, precisely in the Siring 0 Kilometer area of Banjarmasin, the religious atmosphere and Banjar culture merge into one. For three days, November 20-22, 2025, this area transforms into the venue for the "South Kalimantan Tourism Islamic Fair 2025", a strategic step by the South Kalimantan Provincial Government to establish itself as a Muslim-friendly tourist destination in Indonesia.

The Regional Secretary of South Kalimantan, Muhammad Syarifuddin, emphasized that his region possesses natural advantages in developing religious tourism.

"These potentials include the history of great Banjar ulama, the richness of local culture infused with Islam, and deeply rooted community traditions," he stated.

Through this festival, he added, the government aims to open opportunities for the wider public to recognize these cultural assets while strengthening South Kalimantan's position as an archipelagic religious tourism destination.

Islamic Tourism Space Growing from Traditional Roots

Among the row of 55 exhibition booths displaying Islamic-themed tourism and creative economy products, visitors can discover various Banjar halal culinary offerings, Muslim attire, local handicrafts, and religious tour packages tracing the footsteps of prominent ulama.

Beyond just an exhibition, this entire event forms a cultural mosaic showcasing the warm, open, and sustainable lifestyle of the Banjar community.

Syarifuddin affirmed the government's commitment to developing inclusive tourism rooted in local wisdom.

"It is hoped this event will spark new innovations—from increasingly recognized halal MSME products, flourishing youth creativity, to stronger cross-community collaborations in advancing South Kalimantan's religious tourism and economy," he said.

Premiere Event as a Hub for Collaboration

Head of South Kalimantan Tourism Office, Iwan Fitriady, conveyed that this initiative received full support from Governor H. Muhidin and the Chairwoman of South Kalimantan's Family Welfare Movement (DWP).

He confirmed this marks the first event ever organized by the South Kalimantan Tourism Office.

"The primary objectives are to enhance the appeal of Islamic tourism and local culture, provide promotional platforms for MSMEs and creative economy actors, encourage collaboration among government, tourism stakeholders, communities, and the public, and create an event that strengthens South Kalimantan's religious tourism branding nationally," he explained.

South Kalimantan Tourism Islamic Fair 2025 delivers a rich religious tourism experience. Complementing the exhibition are activities including Heart Reflection Session with Ustaz Hilman Fauzi, Halal Tourism Expo, Islamic art and Banua nasyid performances, talk shows on religious tourism development, and competitions such as Maulid Habsyi, Little Preacher (Dai Cilik), and Call to Prayer (Azan).(Antara)