Malay Youth Leader Datok Yan Djuna Hails GEMES 2026 as a Grand Celebration of Malay Heritage in the Land of Deli

MEDAN – The vibrant spirit of Malay culture once again illuminated the heart of Medan as the 11th Gelar Melayu Serumpun (GEMES) 2026 officially opened with a spectacular ceremony at Lapangan Merdeka on Saturday evening (June 27). The annual cultural festival, widely recognized as one of Medan’s premier tourism events, drew thousands of visitors eager to celebrate the richness of Malay traditions.

The festival was officially inaugurated by Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas, who symbolically struck the strings of a traditional Malay gambus accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the pakpung drum. The ceremony unfolded under a clear evening sky, creating a festive atmosphere that reflected the city’s enduring commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

Running through June 30, GEMES 2026 serves not only as a platform for safeguarding Malay arts and traditions but also as a showcase for tourism, creative industries, and local entrepreneurship. This year’s edition carries added significance as it coincides with the 18th National Working Meeting of the Association of Indonesian Municipal Governments (APEKSI) and the celebration of Medan’s 436th anniversary, reinforcing the city’s identity as a multicultural destination rooted in history and tradition.

The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including representatives from Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism, Acting President Director of the Lake Toba Authority (BPODT) Arditama Nusantara Putra, Sultan Deli XIV Seri Paduka Sultan Mahmud Aria Lamantjiji Perkasa Alam Shah, foreign consuls general, members of the Medan City Council, officials from the North Sumatra Provincial Government, cultural leaders, academics, journalists, and thousands of residents.

One of the most notable changes this year is the relocation of the festival venue. After years of being held at the historic Maimun Palace, GEMES has moved to Lapangan Merdeka, a landmark that once served as De Esplanade during the Dutch colonial era and later became known as Fukuraido during the Japanese occupation. The new venue offers greater accessibility while reconnecting visitors with one of Medan’s most historically significant public spaces.

Malay youth leader from the Kejeruan Metar Bilad Deli, Datok Yan Djuna, welcomed the relocation, describing it as a meaningful decision that highlights the historical importance of Lapangan Merdeka.

According to Yan Djuna, the square has long served as the center of civic and governmental life in Medan, making it an ideal setting for a festival celebrating the city’s cultural identity. Its central location also allows easier public access, as reflected by the large crowds attending the opening night.

An academic at Universitas Prima Indonesia (UNPRI) and host of the Resam Melayu cultural program on RRI Pro 4 FM Medan, Yan Djuna also praised the growing international participation in this year’s festival. Alongside regular delegations from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, GEMES 2026 welcomed new cultural representatives from the Philippines, South Korea, and China. Domestic participants also came from North Sumatra, Aceh, Riau, the Riau Islands, and Jakarta, presenting a diverse range of cultural performances throughout the four-day celebration.

“For me, this is a grand celebration of the Malay nation in the Land of Deli. GEMES is tangible proof that Medan, as the homeland of Malay civilization, continues to gain recognition at both the national and international levels,” Yan Djuna said.

“Despite the criticism that may arise, the festival generates significant positive impacts for tourism, the creative economy, and local MSMEs. The stage design, lighting, and overall presentation were truly spectacular. The only aspect that could be improved is the audience’s viewing angle toward the main stage, which should become an evaluation point for future editions,” he added.

Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy an extensive lineup of traditional performances, including Malay music and dance, cultural fashion competitions, a marketplace featuring 72 MSME booths, a dedicated Malay cultural pavilion, and a special performance by Datok Alvin Habib on the opening night.

One of the festival’s signature attractions is the preparation of 1,000 complimentary servings of Bubur Pedas Melayu Deli, led by MasterChef Indonesia contestant Zu Azwar. All events are open to the public free of charge and take place daily from 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (WIB).

With its blend of cultural performances, culinary heritage, and international participation, GEMES XI 2026 once again strengthens Medan’s position as one of Indonesia’s leading cultural tourism destinations while celebrating the enduring legacy of the Malay world.