Fadli Zon Urges Universities to Strengthen Indonesia’s Cultural Ecosystem

RRI.CO.ID, Surakarta - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon, has called on universities to play a greater role in preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage and developing innovation rooted in national identity. He made the statement while delivering a cultural speech at the 46th anniversary celebration of Tunas Pembangunan University (UTP) Surakarta on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Fadli said universities should not function solely as centers for scientific knowledge and education. He emphasized that higher education institutions can also serve as cultural hubs that preserve local wisdom while encouraging innovation based on Indonesia’s diverse cultural identity.

The minister highlighted Indonesia’s rich cultural and historical heritage as part of the country’s contribution to global civilization. He also pointed to cultural diplomacy efforts that have helped facilitate the repatriation of thousands of historical artifacts to Indonesia.

Fadli expressed his appreciation for UTP’s contribution to developing human resources and supporting cultural preservation. “Cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, involving lecturers and students in various restoration and revitalization activities for palace buildings and temples, is highly appreciated,” he said.

He added that cultural preservation requires collaboration among government institutions, local governments, universities, cultural communities, and traditional learning centers. Such cooperation, he said, is essential to ensure that Indonesia’s cultural heritage can be protected while remaining relevant to future generations.

UTP Rector Winarti, said the university remains committed to preserving the values of the Three Characteristics of the Student Soldiers, namely patriotism, pioneering spirit, and independence. These values continue to serve as a foundation for education and character development at the university.

UTP students and lecturers have also participated directly in cultural heritage preservation projects, including temple restoration, museum arrangement, palace restoration, and material testing for historical structures such as ancient bricks.

The university has also supported the preservation of intangible cultural heritage through its GOARA initiative, which promotes traditional Indonesian games such as stilts, sack races, jump rope, and sunda manda.

Fadli said the cooperation between UTP and the Ministry of Culture would continue to expand by involving other academic fields, including economics and business, agriculture, and teacher education. “Culture will become a very important asset for accelerating our cultural economy and cultural advancement, ultimately helping us internalize important cultural values such as mutual cooperation, honesty, cleanliness, and teamwork,” he said.

The minister affirmed that culture should be viewed not only as a foundation of national identity, but also as a strategic asset for economic development and sustainability. Through stronger cooperation between government, universities, communities, and young people, Indonesia aims to preserve its cultural heritage while transforming it into a creative force that remains relevant in a changing world.