RRI.CO.ID, Sukadana - Indonesian Vice President (VP), Gibran Rakabuming Raka, emphasized that technological advancement must go hand in hand with cultural preservation as a foundation for strengthening national identity. According to him, the development of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) must be utilized positively to introduce Indonesia's rich culture to the wider public and strengthen the nation's character.

VP Gibran conveyed the message when meeting with Bela Budaya Nusantara ("Nusantara Cultural Defenders") organization in East Lampung Regency, Lampung, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

Chairperson of the organization's Central Executive Board, Mulyono, expressed his concern about the growing challenges facing cultural preservation amidst rapid technological advancements. He argued that the younger generation could become increasingly distant from their cultural roots if efforts are not balanced with preserving the nation's traditions and noble values.

"We are also afraid that if we don't defend our culture in the future, this generation will only be good at maintaining technology but not at preserving traditions," Mulyono said.

In response, Gibran emphasized the government's strong commitment to ensuring that technological advancements do not erode national identity. He considered digital transformation, including the development of social media and AI, an unavoidable change that must be responded to adaptively without neglecting cultural values.

"It's undeniable that we live in the age of social media and AI, with everyone using a cell phone. But technology and culture must go hand in hand. We can't fight technological advancement and technological disruption. But they must go hand in hand," Gibran said.

Furthermore, Gibran, the eldest son of former president Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, believes that technological advances are actually opening up greater opportunities to introduce Indonesia's rich culture to the world. He believes that utilizing social media and various digital platforms can be an effective means to expand the reach of cultural promotion while fostering pride in the nation's cultural heritage among the younger generation.

"With advances in technology, especially social media, we are actually being helped to introduce our culture further," he concluded.