Culture Minister states that Ramadhan brings activities steeped in cultural heritage

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has stated that Ramadhan is not merely a period of worship but also a space for cultural exchange that strengthens the values of mutual support and social cohesion amongst the population.

He noted that the traditions of breaking the fast together, halal-bihalal (mutual pardon-seeking), and mudik (homecoming) represent distinctive Indonesian cultural practices that demonstrate the strength of social bonds within society.

“Ramadhan is a month filled with activities of fellowship and kinship, which are also part of cultural activities. The tradition of breaking the fast together, halal-bihalal, and mudik represent a wealth of traditions that are uniquely Indonesian. Even the iftar tradition, or breaking the fast together, is currently being promoted for registration as cultural heritage, because it is practised across various regions in Indonesia,” said the Minister of Culture when reached for comment from Jakarta on Tuesday.

The Ministry of Culture continues to promote the revival of national cultural life through implementation of Law Number 5 of 2017 concerning the Advancement of Culture.

The Ministry of Culture hopes to continue strengthening collaboration with cultural practitioners, communities, and cultural organisations in advancing national culture.

The synergy between the government and the cultural community is deemed important for preserving, developing, and promoting the wealth of Indonesian culture as a source of national identity and as Indonesia’s contribution to the global cultural landscape.