Surabaya Tourism Awards 2026: Taman Bhinneka Wins First Place in Education and History-Based Tourism
The Surabaya Tourism Awards (STA) 2026 is back as a prestigious event honoring the tourism industry in the city of Surabaya. This annual event is a collaboration between Harian Disway, Ciputra University, and the Surabaya City Government, aimed at improving the quality of tourism services, encouraging innovation, strengthening competitiveness, and attracting more tourists to Surabaya. The year 2026 marks a special milestone as it celebrates the 5th STA, while also bringing a new surprise: Taman Bhinneka Nusantara Creativity Center (NCC) won First Place in the Education and History-Based Tourism category. Despite having only held its Soft Opening in May 2025, Taman Bhinneka managed to outperform the other two nominees thanks to its unique concept of educational and historical tourism.

Dr. Hana Amalia Vandayani, D.Min., affectionately known as Mama Hana, Founder and Chair of the Board of Trustees of Taman Bhinneka and the Pondok Kasih Foundation, expressed her gratitude: "Taman Bhinneka is a manifestation of Pancasila. It is an honor and a source of pride for us to have won first place in the Education and History-Based category at the 2026 Surabaya Tourism Awards. Thank you to Harian Disway and the City Government of Surabaya for this award.“ In the same vein, Rusli Suleiman, Manager of Taman Bhinneka, added: ”This award is not just about winning, but proof that every effort, idea, and sacrifice made together truly makes a difference for many people. We are not just building a place, but bringing value, hope, and meaning. Let’s keep moving forward together. This is just the beginning."

Located at Jl. Medokan Keputih 29, Surabaya (Graha Yayasan Pondok Kasih), Taman Bhinneka serves as a space for the preservation and development of Indonesian arts and culture, education, training, and community empowerment. In addition to strengthening interfaith tolerance and unity, the park also supports local SMEs by providing a platform for marketing premium products, as well as developing entrepreneurial skills and urban agriculture. The 2026 STA Award serves as a major source of motivation for Taman Bhinneka and the Pondok Kasih Foundation to continue providing the best possible service, driving innovation, and expanding their positive impact on the communities of Surabaya, Indonesia, and the world. (MH).