CCN, CILEGON – The City of Cilegon has once again marked a proud achievement with the successful hosting of the Budaye Cilegon Fest & International Folk-Arts (BC-FIFA) 2025, held from August 6 to 11, 2025. For six consecutive days, the public enjoyed a series of artistic performances, exhibitions, and cultural workshops featuring talents from both local and international participants.
The festival was joined by delegations from four friendly nations—India, South Korea, Russia, and Bulgaria—each showcasing the richness of their respective cultures before thousands of spectators. Their participation stands as a testament to the Cilegon City Government’s commitment to elevating local culture while introducing the diversity of world heritage to the public.
In his remarks, Cilegon Mayor Robinsar expressed his pride over the successful staging of BC-FIFA 2025.
“Culture is not merely about dance or music; it is the identity and essence of a region, of a nation. Alhamdulillah, Cilegon is a community that values culture, upholds courtesy, and fosters togetherness for the advancement of our city,” he stated.
Robinsar emphasized that the festival was not only aimed at preserving culture but also at providing entertainment for the community and revitalizing the vibrant atmosphere of Cilegon’s City Square. He extended his appreciation to all parties involved, from government agencies and organizing committees to the community members who contributed to the event’s success.
“On behalf of the Cilegon City Government, I express my deepest gratitude to all stakeholders, especially Cilegon Police, the Military District Command, Krakatau Steel Group as the main sponsor, and other sponsors who have supported the success of this festive evening,” he added.
Cilegon Deputy Mayor Fajar Hadi Prabowo also encouraged continued public support for the festival.
“May BC-FIFA 2025 bring social benefits, enrich the spirit of cultural heritage, and position Cilegon as a world-class cultural destination,” he said.
Cultural Workshops: Learning, Sharing, and Building Friendship
On the festival’s second day, First Lady of Cilegon Alifa Rizki Aghnia led a cultural workshop, highlighting the importance of openness towards other cultures.
“The courage to ask questions and the willingness to be open-minded show that Cilegon’s students are active learners who respect diversity,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, Deputy First Lady Nur Kusuma Ngarasati led the third day’s workshop with great enthusiasm, inviting participants to dance together with international delegates.
“Today we will dance together, have fun together, and exchange culture together,” she exclaimed.
The workshops became one of the festival’s highlights, as the delegations not only performed traditional dances but also engaged the audience in learning the routines themselves.
From India’s classical dance, South Korea’s samulnori, Russia’s folk dance, to Bulgaria’s horo, the stunning performances by the international delegations demonstrated that Cilegon has the capability to host a world-class cultural festival.
BC-FIFA 2025 was not merely an entertainment event—it served as a bridge for cross-cultural friendship and a platform for promoting the local creative economy. The Cilegon City Government hopes the festival will continue as an annual tradition that grows stronger each year, bringing benefits to all layers of society. (*)
