Sukmawati Soekarnoputri Performs Dance in Buleleng, Merging History and Sport
The daughter of Indonesia’s Proclamation Proclamator, Sukmawati Soekarnoputri, is set to present a dance work in Buleleng Regency, Bali. This marks the third time Sukmawati has performed in the region, which is renowned for its long historical legacy of Balinese struggle.
The performance, titled ‘Ragam Merdeka’, is scheduled to take place at Taman Bung Karno, Sukasada, Buleleng, on Saturday, 6 June 2026. The work draws inspiration from her historical journey through Buleleng, incorporating various records of Balinese struggle, ranging from the era of Panji Sakti to the Jagaraga War, as creative sources.
“I feel increasingly close and familiar with the artists in Buleleng through the dance works I present. This is my third time performing in Buleleng, and hopefully, God willing, this activity can continue next year,” Sukmawati stated when met by detikBali on Tuesday, 2 June 2026.
She noted that Buleleng holds many historical traces worthy of being introduced to the younger generation. One location that particularly caught her attention was Jagaraga, which witnessed the Balinese people’s struggle against Dutch colonialism.
“From the various historical proofs and records I have studied, it is evident how Balinese fighters faced Dutch colonialism. That inspiration was then poured into this dance work,” she said.
In addition to highlighting history and culture, Sukmating also incorporated elements of sport into the performance. In her view, art and sport are closely linked as both rely on physical ability, discipline, and perseverance.
“I am concerned because many high-achieving athletes have yet to receive proper attention and appreciation, despite having brought honour to the nation on the international stage,” she remarked.
In the ‘Ragam Merdeka’ production, Sukmawati combines traditional and contemporary dance elements. The performance involves approximately 100 artists, with a key element being the live performance of ‘genggong’ music by artists from Selat Village, Sukasada District. Sukmawati emphasised that the ‘genggong’ is a unique Balinese cultural heritage that must be preserved.
Sukmawati also expressed her admiration for several national athletes, including Ade Rai, who is involved in this performance. She believes that sport is a vital component of national character building, citing the great interest of Indonesia’s first President, Soekarno, in sports, including the construction of the Gelora Bung Karno stadium as a symbol of national progress.
“A progressive nation is not only one that is skilled in dancing and playing the gamelan, but also a nation that possesses a healthy, disciplined, and educated generation through sport,” she added.
Amidst the rise of social media, Sukmawati expressed concern over the lack of public attention towards high-achieving athletes compared to other more popular digital figures. Through ‘Ragam Merdeka’, she hopes the public, especially the younger generation, will not only grow to love Balinese art and culture but also develop greater appreciation for the nation’s historical struggles and Indonesia’s sporting achievements.