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

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon stated that the centenary commemoration of Jam Gadang serves as a momentum to reaffirm the position of this Bukittinggi icon as a symbol of the nation’s history, culture, and identity.

“We are a country that possesses extraordinary diversity, or mega-diversity. From Sabang to Merauke, from Miangas to Rote Island, our cultural wealth is immense. This includes the Minangkabau with its various cultural expressions and values,” Fadli Zon said in an official statement on Sunday.

He continued that Jam Gadang functions not only as a timekeeper but also as a witness to Indonesia’s historical journey.

“Jam Gadang is not merely a marker of time, but also a marker of an era. Moving forward, it will witness the birth of the Golden Indonesia Generation 2045,” said Fadli Zon.

He also expressed his appreciation to the various parties involved in organising the 100th-anniversary commemorations of Jam Gadang.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of Bukittinggi, Ramlan Nurmatias, stated that the series of commemorations for the 100th anniversary of Jam Gadang has been taking place from 3 June to 21 June 2026.

“The peak event serves as a momentum to strengthen our love for culture while asserting Bukittinggi’s position as one of the important cultural centres in Indonesia,” he emphasised.

Through these commemorations, 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 evidence of the cultural wealth that serves as Indonesia’s strength amidst global civilisation.