Lawmaker Advocates Gamelan for Sustainable Village Economy

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Novita Hardini, a lawmaker of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), urged that cultural preservation extend beyond ceremonies and become a concrete strategy for achieving economic independence in villages. She made this statement while presenting a gamelan set to the Turonggo Yakso Cultural Group in Dongko, Trenggalek Regency, East Java, on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

According to her, gamelan is more than just a traditional instrument, it is the foundation of a creative ecosystem that can drive the local economy. In the hands of the younger generation, this cultural heritage can develop into performances, arts training, and even the production of valuable crafts.

"I hope this gamelan is utilized to its fullest potential to enhance the creativity of artists in Dongko. This is not just about culture, but also about the future of the younger generation. Culture must be managed productively. Dongko youth have great potential to use art as a form of expression and as a business opportunity," she said.

She expressed her belief that the Dongko area in Trenggalek has the potential to become a center for a tradition-based creative economy. In addition to arts training, the studio can be developed into a production facility for Jaranan Dance ornaments, costumes, and even regional souvenirs.

For Novita, strengthening local culture, such as gamelan and the Jaranan Dance, preserves identity and creates new economic opportunities. With good management, the studio can become a center for productive activities involving hundreds of young people.

The gamelan instruments are part of a CSR program supported by Bank Rakyat Indonesia's Trenggalek Branch, in response to Novita's aspirations. This collaboration is expected to exemplify the synergy between the business sector and the cultural community.

Currently, the Turonggo Yakso Cultural Group mentors more than 400 students. The management said that the addition of gamelan instruments will improve the quality of practice and performances. They also hope for continued support for improving the studio's infrastructure, including repairing the roof, to optimize creative activities. ***