Government backs PAPPRI initiative to revitalise national music ecosystem

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has backed an initiative by the Indonesian Artists, Singers, Songwriters and Musicians Association (PAPPRI) to revitalise the national music ecosystem.

“We are very supportive of efforts to continue enlivening and advancing Indonesian music. National Music Day, commemorated every 9 March, aligns with the birthday of Wage Rudolf Supratman, the composer of the national anthem Indonesia Raya. We are open to collaborating and supporting the planned agenda,” Fadli said in a statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The Minister of Culture also welcomed plans for commemorations on 9 March in Banten and on 15 April at Taman Ismail Marzuki.

The minister held a meeting with PAPPRI to discuss plans for National Music Day (HMN) 2026, which will be held across several regions in a spirit of collaboration and the strengthening of national culture.

During the meeting, PAPPRI Secretary General Dwiki Darmawan noted that the organisation had initiated National Music Day 30 years ago, specifically on 27 February 1986, and has consistently maintained the commemoration for more than two decades.

“National Music Day must continue to be preserved as a cultural moment and as a source of hope for the strength of national music. As a professional organisation, we feel responsible for ensuring this commemoration is not overlooked and remains aligned with national cultural policy,” Dwiki said.

The event will feature local talent with religious themes, including Terbang Gede, Genjring Zikir, Rudat and shalawat performances.

The Ministry of Culture has committed to working alongside PAPPRI in strengthening music as a pillar of national cultural advancement, whilst ensuring National Music Day becomes a strategic moment to celebrate the diversity, creativity and identity of Indonesian music.