Thursday, 15 October 2026
Yogyakarta, also known as Jogja, is famous for its rich culture, traditional crafts, historical sites, and lively student community. Now, the city has another reason to attract attention, as Spain is exploring opportunities to strengthen its cooperation with the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). The potential collaboration covers several sectors, including education, creative industries, tourism, cinema, and sports.
The discussion took place during a meeting between Yogyakarta Regional Secretary Ni Made Dwipanti Indrayanti and Spain’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Bernardo de Sicart Escoda, at the Kepatihan Complex in Yogyakarta. The meeting opened the door to new opportunities for both sides to work together and explore what each region has to offer.
Education and Creative Industries Take the Spotlight
Education is already an important part of the relationship between Spain and Yogyakarta. The Spanish Embassy has worked with Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) to support Spanish language teaching. The collaboration has grown over time, eventually leading to the establishment of a dedicated Spanish language study program at the university.
Beyond education, Yogyakarta also wants to expand its cooperation with Spain through the creative economy. Local bamboo crafts and traditional jewelry are among the products being highlighted. These products have already reached the Spanish market through exports, showing that local businesses have opportunities to grow internationally.
With further cooperation, Yogyakarta’s artisans could potentially reach more customers in Spain. This could also create opportunities for business partnerships, cultural exchanges, and the development of local creative products.
Tourism and Culture Offer More Opportunities
Tourism is another sector that could benefit from closer ties between Spain and Yogyakarta. The region has plenty to offer, from ancient temples and historical landmarks to museums and cultural attractions.
Yogyakarta’s cultural heritage could become an interesting attraction for Spanish tourists looking for more than just a regular holiday. The regional government hopes that stronger cooperation and promotion will encourage more visitors from Spain to explore the area.
Spain has also expressed interest in supporting cultural exchanges. Spanish archaeologists could potentially participate in study tours involving museums and historical sites in Yogyakarta. Such activities would give experts from both sides opportunities to exchange knowledge and learn more about each other’s heritage.
Spanish Cinema Could Come to Jogja
The film industry is another interesting possibility. Spain has previously sent films to festivals in Jakarta, and there is an opportunity to bring a Spanish film festival to Yogyakarta in the future.
The discussion also touched on the need for cinema facilities to support film screenings and cultural events. If these plans move forward, local audiences could have more opportunities to enjoy Spanish films and discover a different side of international cinema.
Football and Sports Education
Sports, particularly football, are also on the table. Spain is well known for its football development and coaching education, making it a potential partner for improving sports education in Yogyakarta.
The Spanish ambassador expressed interest in the development of football in Indonesia and highlighted the potential for cooperation in coach training. Schools could also play a bigger role in introducing sports and developing young talent.
Overall, Spain’s interest in Yogyakarta goes beyond business investment alone. From education and handicrafts to tourism, cinema, and football, both sides have several areas to explore. While these opportunities are still being discussed, stronger cooperation could help Yogyakarta expand its international connections while giving local industries and communities more room to grow.
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