Indonesia Champions Cultural Diversity on Global Stage
Paraguay – Indonesia showcased its vibrant cultural tapestry on the world stage as Culture Minister Fadli Zon addressed the 19th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paraguay.
Representing the diverse heart of Southeast Asia, Minister Zon emphasized the significance of the meeting, stating, "On behalf of the Republic of Indonesia, we express our gratitude to UNESCO and Paraguay for organizing this important meeting. Despite the distance, a shared appreciation of culture and heritage unites us."
For an archipelago nation boasting over 17,000 islands, 2,400 ethnic groups, and 720 regional languages, cultural preservation isn’t just a policy, it’s a way of life. "Indonesia, with its rich tapestry of traditions and languages, truly embodies the essence of ‘unity in diversity,’" Minister Zon pointed out, referencing Indonesia’s national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.
This commitment to cultural preservation is reflected in Indonesia’s extensive catalog of intangible cultural heritage, with over 2,000 elements registered nationally and 13 inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO Representative List. Three new inscriptions were ratified during this Paraguay gathering.
Minister Zon underscored the enduring relevance of intangible cultural heritage, declaring, "Intangible cultural heritage is not only a relic of the past, but a testament to human resilience and unity, which is relevant to modern world challenges, such as climate change, conflict, urbanization, and technological advancement."
This focus on cultural sustainability aligns perfectly with the vision of President Prabowo Subianto and his Asta Cita platform, which aims to strengthen harmony between humanity, culture, and nature.
Looking forward, Minister Zon expressed Indonesia’s eagerness to participate in selecting future members of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee. He hopes that through collaborative efforts, the global community can safeguard cultural treasures for generations to come.
