Sriwijaya Festival Aims To Promote Tourism

PALEMBANG, South Sumatra, Aug 21 (Antara) - The Sriwijaya Cultural Festival, to be held at the end of August 2017, aims to promote various regional cultural attractions and tourism, South Sumatra Culture and Tourism Office Chief Irene Camelyn Sinaga remarked here, Monday. She said all districts and cities in South Sumatra will showcase their respective arts, traditions, and cultures to enliven the Sriwijaya festival, in addition to promoting their regional tourism. According to Sinaga, the festival has become a national tourism agenda that is held annually, and this year's event is expected to increase the number of tourist arrivals. "What is clear is that through the festival, the culture and tourism of South Sumatra will be increasingly recognized by the local and international communities," Sinaga noted. The festival is aimed at reviving and innovating local arts and culture within the framework of the Sriwijaya heritage. To this end, the opening day will feature painting, handicrafts, and art exhibitions and competitions, as well as the performance of traditional music to promote public participation in the event through active involvement of communities, and especially the youth. The final and closing day will highlight cultural performances from six districts and cities in South Sumatra. Moreover, tours will be offered, such as a three-day tour of the city of Palembang that includes a culinary tour, a visit to the songket weaving handicraft centers, and historic sites.