Jam Gadang Centenary Becomes Momentum to Affirm Bukittinggi's Iconic Status

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has said that the centenary of Jam Gadang is a momentum to reaffirm the position of the Bukittinggi icon as a symbol of history, culture, and national identity. “We are a nation with extraordinary diversity, or mega diversity. From Sabang to Merauke, from Miangas to Rote Island, our cultural wealth is immense. This includes Minangkabau with its various cultural expressions and values,” Fadli Zon said in an official statement on Sunday. He added that Jam Gadang is not only a timekeeper but also a witness to Indonesia’s historical journey. “Jam Gadang is not just a marker of time, but also a marker of the era. In the future, it will witness the birth of the Golden Indonesia Generation 2045,” Fadli Zon stated. He also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in organising the 100th anniversary commemoration of Jam Gadang. Meanwhile, Bukittinggi Mayor Ramlan Nurmatias said the series of centenary events had been taking place from 3 June to 21 June 2026. “The peak night event is a momentum to strengthen the love for culture while affirming Bukittinggi as one of the important cultural centres in Indonesia,” he emphasised. Through this commemoration, the Ministry of Culture hopes that Jam Gadang will not only be remembered as an icon of Bukittinggi City, but also as a reminder of the long journey of the Indonesian nation and proof of the cultural wealth that is Indonesia’s strength amidst world civilisation.