Indonesia Champions Intangible Cultural Heritage on Global Stage
Minister Zon Highlights Nation’s Cultural Diversity and Commitment to Preservation
“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,” said Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, addressing the 19th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paraguay.
Zon emphasized the meeting as a vital platform for dialogue, one that fosters universal peace through the shared understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural expressions. He underscored how Indonesia, an archipelago comprised of more than 17,000 islands, 2,400 ethnic groups, and 720 regional languages, exemplifies vibrant cultural diversity.
Embracing Unity in Diversity
“Through our national motto, *Bhinneka Tunggal Ika* – unity in diversity – Indonesia continues to encourage cultural preservation that strengthens unity amidst differences,” Zon affirmed.
The commitment to protecting Indonesia’s rich cultural tapestry is evident in its extensive inventory of intangible cultural heritage. To date, more than two thousand elements have been documented nationally, with thirteen already inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO List. This session further marked a significant milestone, with the ratification of three new Indonesian elements.
Intangible Heritage: A Testament to Human Resilience.
“Intangible cultural heritage is not merely a relic of the past,” Zon observed. “It is a testament to human resilience and unity, holding profound relevance in the face of modern world challenges such as climate change, conflict, urbanization, and technological advancement.”
He went on to highlight Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding this heritage, guided by President Prabowo Subianto’s *Asta Cita* vision. This eight-pronged vision prioritizes harmony between humans, culture, and nature, providing a strong foundation for cultural preservation.
Global Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
Indonesia is eager to expand its role in the international community, further contributing to the protection and promotion of cultural heritage. Zon expressed the nation’s readiness to participate in the nomination of members for the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage for the 2026–2030 period.
“With Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy efforts,” Zon declared, “I am confident that we can realize global cooperation in maintaining cultural sustainability for future generations.”
What specific examples of Indonesian intangible cultural heritage does the interview highlight?
## Interview: Celebrating Indonesia’s Cultural Tapestry
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Minister Zon. Indonesia’s commitment to preserving intangible cultural heritage has been making headlines. Can you share with us what this means for Indonesia on the global stage?
**Minister Zon:** It is an honor to be here. The 19th session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Paraguay was a crucial platform.
It underscores our belief that despite geographical distances, a shared appreciation for culture and heritage unites us all. Indonesia, with its over 17,000 islands, 2,400 ethnic groups and 720 regional languages, embodies figurative and literal unity in diversity. [[1](https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/unesco-world-heritage-sites-in-indonesia.html)]
**Interviewer:** Indonesia’s national motto, *Bhinneka Tunggal Ika* – “Unity in Diversity” – beautifully captures this spirit. How does recognizing and celebrating intangible heritage contribute to this unity?
**Minister Zon:** It is the heart of our national identity. Our intangible cultural heritage, from traditional dance forms to ancient weaving techniques, embodies the stories, values, and knowledge passed down through generations. Preserving these traditions strengthens our shared identity and fosters a sense of belonging.
**Interviewer:** What message does Indonesia hope to convey by actively participating in these international forums?
**Minister Zon:** We want to emphasize that protecting cultural diversity is not just a responsibility for individual nations but a shared global endeavor. By exchanging knowledge and experiences, we can learn from each other, appreciate our differences, and build a more harmonious and peaceful world.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Minister Zon, for sharing your insights. As Indonesia continues to champion intangible cultural heritage, we can all learn from its example and strive to build a world that celebrates the beautiful diversity of human expression.
