Gianyar regency in Bali has been named a World Craft City for having the world's longest craft industry, from Batubulan village to Celuk village, Sukawati market, Mas village, Teges village, Peliatan and Tegallalang village.

A first ever for Indonesia, the World Craft City award was given by the World Craft Council (WCC) president for the Asia Pacific region, Ghada Hiijawi Quddumi, alongside National Handicraft Council chairman Mufidah Jusuf Kalla to Gianyar Deputy Regent AA Gde Mayun at Bali Safari & Marine Park's Bali Agung Theater Show on Monday.

“We congratulate Gianyar regency on the award. We hope the award will help preserve and boost craftsmanship among Gianyar people in order to increase their welfare,” said Mufidah as quoted by Antara. 

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In addition to the award, Mufidah said the Law and Human Rights Ministry had also officially recognized the Celuk silver jewelry that is unique to the region as a national craft icon. 

“The Law and Human Rights Ministry has also awarded the regency with the Intellectual Copyright for Geographical Icons certificate for the unique Celuk Silver jewelry, which must be preserved,” Mufidah said.

Established in 2012, the WCC previously awarded Yogyakarta for its batik craft. Meanwhile, the award for Gianyar covers all the regency's crafts, from silver, tenun (woven fabric), batik, woodcarving and woven bamboo to fashion show accessories. (rfa/kes)