KBRN, Jakarta: The Indonesian government reaffirmed its commitment to cultural preservation following UNESCO’s recognition of three national cultural elements. The announcement was delivered during a certificate handover ceremony held in Jakarta, Tuesday (12/2/2025).

Director General of Cultural Diplomacy, Promotion, and Cooperation of the Ministry of Culture, Endah Tjahjani Dwirini Retnoastuti, confirmed that Kebaya has been designated as a multinational nomination. Kolintang from Minahasa also received recognition through an extended multinational nomination together with partner countries.

Reog Ponorogo was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Urgent Safeguarding List, marking an important step for its long-term protection. Endah noted that the inclusion highlights global acknowledgment of Indonesia’s cultural richness.

She stated that the UNESCO designation represents a form of international recognition that strengthens national commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage. According to her, the recognition also fuels enthusiasm to ensure these traditions remain alive, meaningful, and practiced within communities.

“This UNESCO designation is a form of global recognition that reignites their spirit and reinforces the commitment to Indonesia’s cultural heritage, which continues to live, grow, and hold deep meaning for the community,” she said. The statement was delivered in her official remarks during the event.

Endah emphasized that the recognition serves as a starting point for greater responsibilities shared by both the government and the public. She highlighted the importance of strengthening artist regeneration, cultural ecosystems, and cooperation between regions and communities.

She underscored the fundamental role of the state in safeguarding cultural heritage to ensure preservation efforts remain sustainable. Endah said that support mechanisms must continue to be reinforced to protect tradition bearers and cultural practitioners.

“And the state is present to assist, to support, and to ensure that cultural heritage safeguarding efforts are carried out sustainably. Every step and every achievement is the result of our collective effort,” she said.