Fadli Zon Urges Scholars to Carry Indonesia’s Culture to the World

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, has urged recipients of the 280th batch of the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) scholarship to pursue academic excellence while also promoting Indonesian culture during their studies at home and abroad. He delivered the message while speaking at the LPDP 280th Pre-Departure Program at the Police Education and Training Institute's Language School in East Jakarta, Thursday, 17 August, 2026.

The program, held from August 10 to 15, 2026, was attended by 230 LPDP scholarship recipients pursuing master's and doctoral degrees. Of the participants, 130 are preparing to study in 16 countries, while another 100 will continue their education in Indonesia.

The program, themed “Red and White Reflection: I Go to Return,” provides the scholarship recipients with insights into national identity, personal development, study plans, future goals, and plans to contribute to Indonesia. Fadli stressed that access to leading universities around the world should be accompanied by a responsibility to give back to the country.

“We can study anywhere, pursue the highest level of education, explore any part of the world, study at the best universities, and work with anyone. But we must never forget that we have a responsibility to our nation and our country,” Fadli said.

Fadli said LPDP scholars have a strategic role in introducing Indonesia's cultural richness to the international community. He encouraged them to become part of efforts to strengthen the country's cultural power through cultural diplomacy, cultural industries, and initiatives that promote social harmony.

The Minister explained that culture is a constitutional mandate under Article 32, Paragraph 1 of the 1945 Constitution and is further regulated through Law No. 5 of 2017 on the Advancement of Culture. He emphasized that culture encompasses more than arts and music, covering 10 cultural objects, including language, oral traditions, manuscripts, rituals, traditional customs, traditional knowledge, traditional technology, arts, folk games, and traditional sports.

Fadli said Indonesia's vast cultural wealth and long history of civilization are important assets for strengthening national identity and enhancing the country's position internationally. He also encouraged the scholarship recipients to learn more about Indonesia's cultural heritage, including museums, cultural heritage sites, and various cultural expressions in society.

The Minister concluded by entrusting the scholars with a cultural mission as they pursue their studies in Indonesia and overseas. “If we dream alone, it is only an illusion. But if we dream together, it can become the dawn,” he said.