Must-Know for Travelers: World-Class Gastronomy Tour Awaits in Minangkabau's Heart

The aroma of rendang blended with the cool mountain air. This was the atmosphere greeting participants of a familiarization trip (famtrip) organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy in West Sumatra in late September 2025. 

During the five-day journey, the group was invited not only to sample local culinary delights but also to delve into the philosophy and culture living behind each traditional Minangkabau dish.

"Through nature and cultural tourism activities in West Sumatra, participants can gain a deeper understanding regarding the culinary richness and culture behind the creation of regional specialties," said Deputy Minister for Marketing of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, in a written statement in Jakarta, Monday.

This famtrip program ran from September 30 to October 4, 2025, exploring various prime destinations such as Padang Pariaman Regency, Padang Panjang, Bukittinggi, Payakumbuh, Lake Singkarak, the Alahan Panjang Highlands in Solok Regency, to Padang City. 

Each city offered its own story, from traditional kitchens to serene natural landscapes.

Through this activity, the Ministry of Tourism aims to affirm that West Sumatra is not only home to world-famous rendang but also a prime example of a gastronomy and Muslim-friendly tourism destination. 

With its natural beauty, cultural wisdom, and authentic halal cuisine, the province is hoped to become a top choice for domestic tourists for the year-end holidays.

“The Ministry of Tourism wants West Sumatra to be recognized as a gastronomy and Muslim-friendly tourism destination, thus it is hoped it can become an alternative travel destination for domestic tourists during the year-end holidays and increase public interest to travel DiIndonesiaAja, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays,” explained Made.

Interestingly, this activity was not only attended by officials and tourism industry players, but also media and content creators from various regions. 

They were invited to directly explore culinary trails, interact with local artisans, and witness enduring traditions, from the process of cooking dendeng balado to steaming lamang tapai (sticky rice cake) on a wood-fired stove.

Made added that this activity is expected to strengthen cross-sector collaboration. 

“The activity is expected to enhance synergy and collaboration among stakeholders in the development of Indonesian tourism, particularly in West Sumatra,” she said.

With its richness of flavor, culture, and the hospitality of its people, West Sumatra seemed to blend culinary tourism and spirituality into one harmony. 

Here, every meal is not just about taste—but also about story, values, and the spirit of the nation.(Antara)