Jember, en.SERU.co.id – Jember Regent Muhammad Fawait has described the Jember Kota Cerutu Indonesia (JKCI) Festival as the largest cigar festival in Asia. He also reaffirmed his commitment to helping the local cigar industry gain greater recognition on the international stage.
Speaking at the event held at Watu Ulo Beach in Wuluhan on Saturday, 1 July 2026, Fawait — widely known as Gus Fawait, said the cigar industry remains one of Jember’s flagship products and a source of pride for the community. He noted that it already competes strongly in global markets.
“The JKCI Festival is proof that Asia’s largest cigar industry is right here in Jember Regency. This extraordinary potential must continue to be developed because it directly supports the vision of a Golden Indonesia by 2045,” he said.
Fawait pointed out that the market for cigars is expanding well beyond traditional enthusiasts. Growing interest from both domestic and international consumers, he argued, represents a valuable opportunity for local producers.
“More and more people are enjoying cigars, both at home and abroad. The number of enthusiasts keeps rising, and this is a promising market that our industry players need to seize,” he explained.
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He stressed that stronger demand for Jember cigars would benefit the wider local economy, from tobacco farmers to small and medium enterprises involved in processing.
“When demand for cigars increases, the impact is felt not only by large businesses but also by tobacco farmers across Jember. More jobs are created, the local economy gains momentum, and community welfare improves,” Fawait said.
Through the festival, he added, Jember aims to send a clear message to the world: the regency is ready to be known as Indonesia’s Cigar Capital. Officials are open to collaboration and investment that can further raise the country’s profile internationally. (sgt/mzm)
Indonesian Version:
Bupati Fawait Sebut JKCI Festival Cerutu Terbesar di Asia
