Recognizing the importance of preserving and promoting this cultural richness, the Ministry of Tourism has recently launched a comprehensive incentive program to bolster tourism in Central Java. The program prioritizes sustainable tourism, strongly emphasizing supporting local businesses and promoting authentic cultural experiences. Through these initiatives, the ministry hopes to showcase the region’s unique heritage while ensuring that tourism benefits both the environment and local communities.
Central Java has always been more than just a tourist destination. My Mother grew up in Magelang, a small city near Borobudur, and as a child, I spent countless summers visiting the region. Those trips left an indelible mark on me, shaping my love for Central Javanese food, especially the distinct spices and flavors that define its cuisine. Whether the aromatic soto ayam or the crispy fried tempeh, each dish carried the essence of a culture that cherished its culinary traditions. These early experiences eventually inspired me to take a bold step: to promote Central Javanese culture and cuisine to a wider audience.
The Founding of Kraton Byongjowo: A Culinary Journey
Driven by a desire to share the flavors of my childhood, I founded Kraton Byongjowo, a small business that pays homage to one of Central Java’s most beloved snacks: emping. Made from melinjo nuts, these thin, crispy crackers have long been a staple of Javanese cuisine, often served as a savory accompaniment to main dishes or enjoyed as a snack on their own. However, for many outside the region, the taste of emping remains unknown.Kraton Byongjowo is not just a business; it serves as a platform to showcase the rich culinary heritage of Central Java to the world. With an emphasis on traditional production techniques, each piece of emping is meticulously made to preserve the authentic flavors passed down through generations. By highlighting these time-honored methods, my goal is not only to sell a product but to spark interest in Central Javanese culture and cuisine, encouraging more people to discover the region's vibrant food scene.
In doing so, Kraton Byongjowo contributes to the Ministry of Tourism’s efforts to enhance Central Java’s reputation as a must-visit destination. By bringing attention to the region’s food, we help highlight its broader cultural treasures. The impact of the business goes beyond that, as sales of emping directly support local economies, with a portion of our profits dedicated to giving back to communities in need.
Social Impact Through Emping: Giving Back
At Kraton Byongjowo, our mission goes beyond promoting Central Java’s culture. We are committed to making a difference in the lives of others. Recently, we donated several thousand pieces of multivitamin medicine, such as Eyevit, to the DKI Jakarta provincial government. These donations, worth USD5.000 (Rp79.464.220), were distributed to vulnerable communities, helping them access essential healthcare supplies.This commitment to social good is central to the values of Kraton Byongjowo. We believe that businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of society, and we are proud to support efforts that uplift underserved communities. By blending cultural promotion with social impact, we hope to create a business that reflects the generosity and resilience of Central Javanese culture.
A Blend of Culture and Compassion
Through Kraton Byongjowo and our signature Emping Keraton, my goal is to share Central Java's rich cultural heritage with a global audience. Whether through the distinct flavor of our melinjo crackers or our commitment to social causes, we aim to create a positive impact on all fronts. Our mission goes beyond food—it’s about preserving traditions, uplifting communities, and encouraging others to explore the beauty of Central Java, one emping at a time.This article is written by Aldrich Setiady, founder of Kraton Byongjowo, a small business that pays homage to one of Central Java’s most beloved snacks, driven by the desire to share his childhood favourite snack.
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