JAYAPURA-The Thousand Candles Festival and UMKM Exhibition held in Nimbokrang Village, Nimbokrang District, Jayapura Regency, once again drew strong enthusiasm from the community as well as micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the region. Carrying the theme “Support Local Business, Build a Sustainable Future,” the event served as a platform to strengthen community-based economic development while promoting the unique local heritage of Grime Nawa.
The festival was officially opened by Jayapura Regent, Dr. Yunus Wonda, who also visited each UMKM booth to observe the wide range of local products displayed by participating entrepreneurs. His presence underscored the government’s commitment to supporting grassroots economic empowerment and preserving regional cultural identity.
One of the main highlights of the festival was the showcase of various products made from sayur lilin, a signature vegetable of the Grime Nawa area that is now being developed as a leading UMKM commodity. From fresh sayur lilin to culinary creations, the displays reflected both local wisdom and the creativity of community-based businesses.
Beyond driving economic activity, the festival also became an important gathering space for residents of Nimbokrang and surrounding areas—strengthening social ties, encouraging innovation, and demonstrating that local potential can evolve into an independent economic strength for Jayapura Regency.
With continued government support and the active participation of local entrepreneurs, the Thousand Candles Festival stands as an important momentum for elevating Grime Nawa’s cultural heritage, expanding UMKM opportunities, and building a more sustainable economic future.
