Surakarta – APEKSI is urging local governments to organize government activities that go beyond mere ceremony, aiming instead to inspire and deliver tangible impacts for the community. The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Bima Arya Sugiarto, conveyed this message during the APEKSI Protocol Workshop at the Swiss-Belinn Hotel Surakarta on Thursday (September 3, 2026), which was also attended by the Mayor of Surakarta, Respati Ardianto. Bima emphasized that any activity using public funds must have clear objectives and targets and be designed around the principle of “low budget, high impact.” “Every second is an opportunity to inspire and make an impact,” he stated.
Bima also highlighted the importance of creativity, timing, and collaboration in organizing government events. He noted that “out-of-the-box” concepts do not necessarily require large budgets, while the protocol function plays a strategic role as the face of the regional head and serves as an early warning system for leadership. Protocol staff are expected to work professionally, decisively, and humanely, ensuring that guest services, event proceedings, visuals, documentation, and publicity all run optimally. “The keyword is collaboration,” Bima asserted, encouraging synergy among civil servants (ASN), regional government agencies, and professionals, in accordance with applicable needs and regulations.
Meanwhile, the Mayor of Surakarta, Respati Ardianto, emphasized that professionalism in protocol is crucial for building communication and public trust. “Protocol represents the face of the regional head,” Respati said. He argued that the success of an event’s success should be measured by its impact after it concludes, not merely by the fact that it took place. On this occasion, Respati also outlined Surakarta’s development trajectory toward becoming a “2030 Wellness City” by strengthening the “Javanese Wellness” concept. The APEKSI event was also attended by APEKSI Executive Director Alwis Rustam, guest speakers, and participants from various local governments, serving as a forum for sharing experiences to strengthen protocol functions as a strategic component of public communication and government image.