Culture Minister Emphasises Strengthening Cultural Heritage Ecosystem Through Keris

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Culture Minister Fadli Zon has emphasised the importance of cultural preservation efforts to strengthen the cultural heritage ecosystem, one of which is through the keris exhibited at the Solo Arts and Culture Exhibition. Minister Fadli Zon welcomed the organisation of the Solo Art and Culture Exhibition as an important step in advancing culture. Moreover, according to him, this event also reinforces the position of the keris as a world cultural heritage already inscribed by UNESCO. “The keris is an Indonesian cultural heritage; the keris is originally from Indonesia; this becomes one of our identities. The keris contains many cultural expressions, from symbolic meanings, philosophical aspects behind it, to its very high artistic achievements,” explained the Culture Minister in an official statement received on Sunday. This exhibition features collections from collectors with non-cultural backgrounds, ranging from the TNI, Police, to banking institutions. According to him, this is what is hoped for, namely a form of collaboration between the central government, provincial government, city government, as well as private entities, communities, corporations, and cultural fighters and enthusiasts in Indonesia. “This is something that, in my opinion, must become the foundation of our self-identity, identity, and pride, that we are not merely a nation state, but a civilizational state. A state whose civilization is long and has experienced various acculturations in various places,” said Culture Minister Fadli Zon. The Solo Arts and Culture Exhibition, held at the Museum Keris Nusantara, takes the theme “Jaga Budaya” (Preserve Culture). “Culture can synergise with modern sectors, including financial services, to strengthen the creative economy. Support for the keris exchange plan is also affirmed as an effort to improve the welfare of artisans and encourage youth involvement,” he stated. In addition, indicators, reporting systems, and sustainability plans will be established to ensure that the strengthening of keris culture proceeds in a measurable and sustainable manner.