Indonesia Uses Public Spaces to Showcase Its Diverse Cultural Heritage

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture urges the use of public spaces as platforms to showcase and promote the country’s diverse cultural heritage. The initiative was highlighted through the Cultural Fair Day “Pasar Pagi Nusantara,” held in Jakarta on Sunday, August 16, 2026, alongside the city’s Car Free Day.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, said the event brings various forms of cultural expression closer to the public. He said the event provides a meeting point for communities, artists, cultural groups, and businesses involved in the cultural sector.

The Cultural Fair Day featured performances from several cultural communities, including the Street Music Institute, or Institut Musik Jalanan (IMJ), which brought together street musicians. The event also featured Cong Rock from Semarang, a musical fusion of keroncong and rock, as well as dance performances and a flash mob involving young people.

He said the Ministry of Culture has also supported street musicians through assistance and equipment. “The Ministry of Culture has provided support, assistance, and facilities, including musical instruments and sound systems,” Fadli said.

According to him, the strong public response has encouraged the ministry to consider holding the Cultural Fair Day regularly. He said the event could potentially be held once a month on Sundays, giving the public more opportunities to enjoy cultural activities during the weekend.

The Minister also said the event could provide opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises involved in the cultural sector. “We hope that this Cultural Fair Day can be held regularly, perhaps once a month on Sundays,” he said.

Visitors can also explore and purchase a range of curated cultural products during the event. These include books, traditional daggers known as keris, wayang puppets, porcelain, and other cultural items.

The Ministry of Culture hopes the Cultural Fair Day will help bring Indonesian culture closer to the public while supporting the cultural and creative economy. By combining arts, communities, small businesses, and public spaces, the government aims to make culture a more visible part of everyday community life.