Regional Cultures Seen as Key to Strengthening National Identity

Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon has stated that strengthening regional cultures is a crucial key to maintaining national identity in the face of globalisation. Speaking at a Minang Diaspora Global Network gathering titled ‘Mufakat Ranah and Rantau: Building Nagari – Strengthening Identity’ at YARSI University on Saturday, 23 May 2026, he said Indonesia’s vast cultural richness must be preserved and developed.

‘Culture must be preserved and developed amid world civilisation,’ Zon said, citing Article 32, Paragraph 1 of the 1945 Constitution. He noted Minangkabau culture’s significant role in the national cultural landscape, known not only for traditions and arts but also for literature, ancient manuscripts, and traditional cuisine such as rendang, which is recognised as Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Zon also mentioned the discovery of pictographs in Lidah Aia Cave, West Sumatra, indicating ancient civilisations dating back tens of thousands of years. ‘Culture is not a burden but a strength. It must be part of the cultural economy and Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy,’ he said.

The event was attended by community leaders, academics, cultural figures, diplomats, and Minangkabau diaspora from various countries. Activities included cultural dialogues, exhibitions of Minangkabau literature and culture, traditional performances, traditional attire shows, and awards for literary and humanitarian contributions.

Fasli Jalal, President of Minang Diaspora Global Network, said the forum aims to strengthen ties between the homeland (ranah) and diaspora (rantau), affirming the nagari as the foundation of Minangkabau identity. ‘We may migrate anywhere, but our Minang identity must be preserved,’ he said, adding the diaspora network now spans 22 countries and is expected to generate ideas for social, cultural, and education-based development rooted in nagari.

Zon presented the Minangkabau Literary Masterpiece Award to Rais Yatim and Mas’oed Abidin for their contributions to Minangkabau cultural literacy and civilisation. The Minang Diaspora Global Network also awarded the Minangkabau Humanitarian Service Award to journalists Uddin, Nurhayati Subakat, and Yendra Fahmi for their dedication to society and humanity.

The event was attended by national figures including Mufidah Jusuf Kalla, Mahyeldi Ansharullah, Denny Abdi, Taufiq Ismail, and Andalas University Rector Efa Yonnedi.