Seminar on Minang custom

JAKARTA (JP): The Minangkabau, one of the few surviving matrilineal cultures in the world, will be the subject of a seminar here on Tuesday.

The Cahaya Ibu (Mother's Ray) Foundation, which is organizing the event, has secured Emil Salim, a Minang figure and former cabinet minister, as one of the speakers along with Director General of Tourism Andi Mappi Sammeng. Minister of Women's Roles Mien Sugandhi is expected to open the meeting.

The Minangkabau are the dominant subethnic group in West Sumatra.

The Council for the Development of Minangkabau Custom is co- sponsoring the seminar, foundation chairwoman Mrs. Kartasuma was quoted by Antara as saying.

She said the seminar came at the behest of Minangkabau leaders who feel that their custom and tradition need to be conserved in a rapidly changing society.

The foundation is also organizing a related bazaar at Taman Ismail Marzuki as well as a cultural evening and painting exhibition at Hotel Indonesia. (emb)