Kemiren Tourism Village Receives Mentoring from the Ministry of Tourism to Achieve Best Tourism Village status.

Kemiren Tourism Village, located in Banyuwangi Regency, East Java, has received special attention from the Ministry of Tourism. This village, widely known as the ancestral home of the Osing indigenous people, will receive official mentorship support to improve its operational governance while working towards the Best Tourism Village title awarded by United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism).

Kemiren was previously selected to participate in the 2025 Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme launched by UN Tourism. This programme is allocated to tourism villages assessed to have strong potential to refine their governance systems and meet established international tourism standards.

Kemiren Tourism Village's inclusion in this programme creates a valuable opportunity for Banyuwangi to introduce the rich cultural heritage of the Osing community to a global audience of travellers.

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani has warmly welcomed the Ministry of Tourism's support. She stated that this official mentorship represents a critical milestone to both protect and develop the full potential of Kemiren Village.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to the Minister of Tourism for the consistent guidance provided to the Kemiren Osing Traditional Tourism Village," stated Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani during an earlier official statement.

Kemiren's strengths do not only come from its scenic rural landscapes, but also from the living culture and long-held traditions of the local Osing population.

Kemiren Village is the traditional settlement of Banyuwangi's native people, who still preserve their indigenous language, traditional house architecture, performing arts, and the full spectrum of their customary ceremonial practices.

"We hope that through the Ministry of Tourism's mentorship, Kemiren Village will be fully prepared to welcome visitors from every country, without ever losing the authentic Osing cultural identity and character that has always defined its appeal," Ipuk added.

Osing Traditions as the Core Foundation

This unique cultural potential is one of the primary reasons Kemiren Village was selected for the UN Tourism tourism village standards improvement programme.

Minister of Tourism Widiyanti Putri Wardhana previously conducted an official visit to Banyuwangi, including a stop at Kemiren Tourism Village. During the visit, the Minister did not only inspect tourism facilities; she also walked through local village lanes and held direct interactions with residents.

Widiyanti assessed that Kemiren's community has demonstrated great creativity in preserving their traditions, while also developing them into distinct, immersive experiences for visitors.

Tourists do not only visit to view static attractions, they are able to engage with traditions that remain actively lived by the local community.

"It is our hope that upon completion of this mentorship programme, Kemiren Village will successfully achieve the Best Tourism Village recognition," stated the Minister.

Previously Awarded ASEAN Homestay Recognition

Kemiren already has a solid track record supporting its pursuit of international recognition: the village was awarded the 5th ASEAN Homestay Award at the 2025 ASEAN Tourism Awards (ATA).

This award confirms that Kemiren's community-run accommodation and authentic local daily life already have proven appeal for international travellers.

The Ministry of Tourism's mentorship is expected to strengthen all critical operational aspects, including governance systems, service quality standards, community readiness, and further development of unique visitor experiences.