Gotong Royong Culture Through Cooperatives Creates People's Economy

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Deputy Chairperson of the Indonesian Cooperative Council (Dekopin), Teguh Eko Prastyono, believes that the culture of ‘gotong royong’ through cooperatives serves as one of the primary strengths of the Indonesian people, particularly in creating a people-based economy.

“The culture of gotong royong is reflected in cooperatives. Cooperatives are a tangible form of community togetherness,” said Eko in Jakarta on Tuesday.

According to Eko, who is also the Chairperson of the Nusantara Traditional Cultural Movement (GUNTUR), the culture of the archipelago possesses vast richness. He noted that Nusantara culture is not limited to the arts, but also encompasses the customs and languages that flourish across various regions.

“Nusantara culture includes arts, customs, and language. All of these are riches that must be preserved together,” Eko stated.

Furthermore, Eko mentioned that the spirit of gotong royong needs to be continuously strengthened amidst modern developments. This value remains a vital component in maintaining the social life of the community.

Cultural movements, according to Eko, must be able to bridge tradition with the contemporary needs of society. He argued that cultural preservation cannot be achieved through artistic activities alone; local customs and regional languages also require space within community life.

Consequently, GUNTUR is encouraging the public to rediscover the various traditions that form regional identities. Such efforts are essential to ensure that Nusantara culture does not lose its roots amidst changing times.

“Cooperatives and cultural movements share a common ground in the spirit of togetherness. Both can thrive when the community possesses the care and the will to work together,” E_ko said.

Eko expressed hope that cultural movements could serve as a space to strengthen national unity. He also hopes that the value of gotong royong does not merely remain a legacy of the past.

This spirit needs to be realised through various social, economic, and cultural activities. In doing so, the culture of the archipelago will remain alive and relevant for future generations.