Seminar on Minang custom

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)