NUSA DUA, Bali (BPN) – The Bali Hotels Association (BHA) launches the 4th Annual Sustainable Food Festival, running from October 30 to November 10, 2024. This year’s festival, themed “Flavours of Nusantara,” will celebrate the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Indonesian archipelago.
Participating members across Bali will offer specially curated menus that both tantalize the taste buds as well promoting sustainable dining practices.
John H. Nielsen, BHA’s Sustainability Director, said that the Sustainable Food Festival is a cornerstone of the association’s efforts to raise awareness about sustainable dining.
“It provides a unique opportunity for guests to savour the ‘Flavours of Nusantara’ through menus at various member hotels, from October 30th to November 10th. Our talented chefs draw inspiration from family traditions to create dishes that are both delicious and sustainable,” he said at the launching that took place at Conrad Bali on Wednesday (October 30).
Nielsen further emphasized the importance of supporting local farmers and producers.
“By prioritizing locally produced foods, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also explore the vast array of flavours from the many islands that make up Indonesia. The concept of Nusantara, which means the Indonesian archipelago, is deeply rooted in our culture and will soon also be reflected in the new capital set to be established in Kalimantan, Borneo, in 2025,” he said.
This year’s festival underscores BHA’s commitment to sustainability, with all featured menus using ingredients sourced entirely from within Indonesia.
With a strong preference for locally produced and organic items, the event highlights the critical role of mindful sourcing in reducing environmental impact.
Participating chefs will blend traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques, offering an authentic experience that honors Indonesia’s rich heritage.
As in previous years, the festival will place a strong focus on waste reduction, emphasizing recycling, composting, and food donation initiatives.
Partnerships with local food rescue organizations, such as Scholars of Sustenance (SOS), will ensure that any surplus food is donated to communities in need, aligning with BHA’s mission to support local communities and minimize waste.
Diah Ajung, BHA’s Executive Director explained that the Sustainable Food Festival and Cooking Competition are perfect platforms to showcase the remarkable talent within our BHA member hotels.
“These events not only celebrate Indonesia’s rich cultural traditions but also highlight our collective commitment to sustainability. It’s truly inspiring to see our chefs and teams embracing sustainability, creating innovative dishes that reflect both our heritage and our responsibility to the environment,” she said.
The festival also serves to strengthen local connections, underscoring the importance of linking General Managers and Chefs with local producers.
This collaboration fosters relationships that enhance sustainability efforts across the island. By showcasing a diverse array of high-quality, locally sourced goods, the festival demonstrates the rich variety available right here in Bali.
Diah emphasized that BHA continues to drive sustainable business practices by championing models that have a significant impact on local producers.
The benefits of this festival extend well beyond the event itself, as many participating hotels already collaborate with local vendors.
This year, the festival is expected to open doors to partnerships with 10 or more new vendors, creating exciting opportunities for future collaborations.
Both hotel guests or local residents are invited to enjoy the festival. Advance Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot at participating venues and to help minimize food waste.
Visit www.hallismylife.com for a complete list of participating hotels and restaurants, their menus, and booking details.
Indulge in curated menus at participating venues across Bali. Each venue will display different dishes that highlight their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
“From traditional family recipes to contemporary interpretations of Nusantara cuisine, this year’s Sustainable Food Festival is a celebration of Indonesia’s culinary heritage and its promising future,” Diah concluded.
