North Sulawesi Set to Host World Coconut Day 2026: A Strategic Push for the Global Coconut Industry

MANADO, NORTH SULAWESI — A high-level coordination meeting was held on July 7, 2026, between the International Coconut Community (ICC) and the North Sulawesi Provincial Government to discuss the preparations for the upcoming World Coconut Day (WCD) 2026.

The meeting was attended by ICC Executive Director Dr. Jelfina C. Alouw and North Sulawesi Governor Mayjen TNI (Purn) Yulius Selvanus. Also in attendance were Jemmy Ringkuangan, A.P., M.Si (Assistant for Economy and Development of the North Sulawesi Regional Secretariat), Darwin Muksin (Head of the North Sulawesi Plantation Agency) along with his team, and Klaudio Hosang (ICC Administration & Finance Director).

During the meeting, Dr. Jelfina detailed the origins of World Coconut Day, which was established to commemorate the founding of the ICC. Dr. Jelfina emphasized that WCD 2026 in Manado will be a major international event involving global coconut stakeholders. The celebration is designed to re-establish North Sulawesi famously known as "Bumi Nyiur Melambai" as the central axis of the global coconut world. Additionally, Manado will host a specialized tissue culture workshop as part of the proceedings.

A major highlight of the discussion was the announcement of a prestigious appreciation award to be presented to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Dr. Jelfina explained that the award recognizes the President's immense support for the coconut industry, specifically his policy to expand the mandate of the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP). Previously focused solely on palm oil (BPDPKS), the agency's scope has been broadened to include strategic commodities such as coconut and cocoa. The ICC views the inclusion of the coconut sector as a significant milestone, ensuring long-term attention that will vastly elevate the industry.

Governor Yulius Selvanus warmly welcomed the initiative, sharing that President Prabowo is exceptionally proud of North Sulawesi’s coconut heritage. The Governor strongly emphasized that downstreaming in North Sulawesi’s coconut industry is a critical priority for maximizing the economic value of the region's coconut sector.

Expressing his full support for hosting World Coconut Day in Manado, Governor Selvanus immediately instructed his administration to finalize all technical arrangements for the event. He noted that the international gathering will serve as a powerful platform to globally promote the identity of "Bumi Nyiur Melambai."

To ensure a massive economic and industrial impact, the WCD 2026 celebrations will feature several key components:

• Global Participation: The event will mobilize delegations from 21 ICC member countries, international experts, and global exporters and importers to unlock trade cooperation and direct investment opportunities.

• Prestigious Awards: In addition to the Presidential award, Governor Selvanus will receive a special honorary award from the ICC for his outstanding leadership in driving the province's plantation sector growth to an impressive 48.2%.

• Comprehensive Programs: The agenda includes a three-dimensional parallel conference, B2B networking sessions, a global-scale exhibition featuring international agricultural technology, and an International Coconut Song Choir Competition designed to attract a massive influx of visitors.