RRI.CO.ID, Surabaya - East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has called for a comprehensive strengthening of the Reyog Ponorogo ecosystem following its designation as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. She emphasized that the focus must now shift toward regeneration, preservation, and global sustainability to ensure the art form thrives for generations to come.

"Reyog is not just an attraction. Inside it lies a very strong philosophy of courage, truth, and how diverse ethnicities and religions can be woven into a cultural harmony," Khofifah said at the Grahadi State Building in Surabaya on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The recognition of Reyog Ponorogo under UNESCO's "In Need of Urgent Safeguarding" category in late 2024 necessitates concrete action, particularly regarding modern ethical standards.

The transition toward animal welfare was a critical component of the UNESCO recognition process, as ensuring that performances no longer use materials from protected wildlife is essential for continued international acceptance. Governor Khofifah emphasized that this shift preserves the art form's integrity while aligning it with modern ethical standards.

Beyond its physical display, the philosophical value of Reyog plays a vital role in character building, serving as a powerful representation of national identity and the collective struggle for truth. To ensure these values endure, institutional collaboration is being strengthened as the East Java Tourism and Culture Agency (Disbudpar) partners with the Wilwatikta College of Art, SMK 12 Surabaya, and Surabaya State University to integrate reyog into both formal and community-based education.

In anticipation of the National Reyog Festival (FRNP) 2026 scheduled for June, regional troupes are intensifying their preparations. The Kyai Lodra Reyog Team recently presented the results of a two-month intensive training program to the Governor.

Head of Disbudpar East Java, Evy Afianasari, added that the administration is also working closely with the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA). This collaboration focuses on the conservation of the green peafowl (Merak Hijau), ensuring that the feathers used in the iconic Dadak Merak headpieces are sourced sustainably and legally, aligning the tradition with modern ecological conservation goals.

The move toward animal welfare is a transformative step for reyog, as it replaces traditional materials with sustainable alternatives to meet UNESCO's global standards. This shift ensures that the cultural heritage remains vibrant without compromising the survival of protected species like the green peafowl.

Furthermore, by integrating reyog into educational curricula, the provincial administration is securing a path for cultural regeneration. This "ecosystem approach" ensures that young performers not only master the physical dance but also understand the deep-rooted philosophical values that define Indonesian identity. ***