Deputy Home Affairs Minister Visits Award-Winning Batuan Village

Gianyar — Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto visited Batuan Village in Sukawati, Gianyar, on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, after the village won first place in the Learning Village category at the Innovation and Learning Village Award 2026.

The visit brought central and local officials to Batuan to review its approach to education, community empowerment, innovation and cultural preservation. Bima Arya was accompanied by his wife, Yane Ardian, while the delegation was welcomed by Gianyar Deputy Regent Anak Agung Gde Mayun, the Sukawati subdistrict head and Batuan Village Head Ari Anggara.

Batuan’s award puts village learning in focus

The visit included a review of traditional Batuan-style painting lessons for children at Balai Ulu Baturan, followed by a discussion at Joglo Baturan about village innovation, community empowerment and local potential. The village’s model links education and cultural activity with broader efforts to strengthen community capacity.

Batuan also showcases creative economic activity. The delegation visited a wood-bark carving workshop owned by Selamet in Banjar Puaya and Sanggar Kaki Bebek House, owned by I Made Suteja in Banjar Pekandelan, where it watched traditional Balinese dance practice.

For foreign residents and visitors, the significance is practical rather than regulatory: the visit identifies Batuan as a place where cultural preservation, local education and community-led innovation are being presented together. It also offers context for understanding why village-based cultural programs can draw attention beyond Bali’s main tourism centers.

NusaBali reported that Batuan received the award after being named first place in the Learning Village category at the Innovation City and Learning Village Award 2026. The event was initiated by Thailand’s Science and Technology Development Agency, the University of Phayao, the National Innovation Agency, the National Economic and Social Development Council under Thailand’s Ministry of Education, EO SEPS and Bali Tourism Polytechnic.

The reports state that the visit was intended to examine the practices behind Batuan’s international recognition. No further official action or timetable was stated.

Sources

• Bali Post — regional news organisation
• NusaBali — regional news organisation
• viva.co.id
• baligenie.com
• lenteraesai.id