KBRN, Jakarta: Reog Ponorogo, a spectacular traditional dance and a key symbol of Indonesia’s cultural megadiversity, is at the center of a new collaborative preservation effort.

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon has called for a joint initiative involving provincial and regency administrations, private corporations, and local communities to ensure the longevity and global recognition of this East Javanese art form.

Speaking in Jakarta on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, Minister Fadli emphasized the importance of safeguarding the entire Reog ecosystem from the production of its iconic masks to the active participation of local art communities to preserve its cultural value for future generations.

“We must be creative in building partnerships and synergy among stakeholders to advance this together,” he said.

The minister is confident that Reog Ponorogo will gain greater international recognition. He stressed the need to promote and develop the tradition through various platforms, including social media and ongoing cultural festivals.

He also praised the Ponorogo Regency and the East Java Provincial Administration for their initiative to construct the Reog Monument and Museum of Ponorogo Civilization, describing it as a groundbreaking effort that could foster a thriving cultural economy in the region.

“The Ministry of Culture highly appreciates this achievement. Hopefully, it will inspire other regions to take bold steps in advancing cultural development,” he added.

Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko confirmed that the monument is being built through a collaborative effort. He noted the opening of a temporary museum to house artifacts, which are currently being curated and digitized.

This initiative aims to provide future generations with direct access to historical evidence, rather than relying solely on oral traditions or legends.

The Reog Monument and Museum of Civilization (MRMP) is being constructed on a prominent hilltop, making it visible from all directions. With 94 percent of the project completed, its inauguration is highly anticipated. The site is expected to become a lasting symbol of Ponorogo’s globally celebrated cultural heritage.

Reog Ponorogo is renowned for its mystical and dynamic performances, featuring dancers in elaborate costumes. The centerpiece is the Singa Barong, a massive lion-like mask adorned with peacock feathers, famously balanced by a single dancer using only their teeth.

The performance typically narrates the legend of a mythical king of Ponorogo and his battles, blending elements of dance, theater, and martial arts. ***