RRI.CO.ID, Medan - Indonesia is intensifying efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of the traditional keris dagger through stronger collaboration with cultural organizations and communities. The initiative was highlighted during the inauguration of the regional leadership of the National Secretariat of Indonesian Keris (SNKI) in Medan, North Sumatra, Sunday 8 March 2026.

Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, attended the ceremony for the SNKI North Sumatra regional board for the 2026–2030 period. The event reflected the government’s commitment to safeguarding traditional craftsmanship as part of the nation’s cultural identity.

In his remarks, Fadli emphasized the role of SNKI as one of six Indonesian cultural organizations accredited by UNESCO. “SNKI was formed by the government following the National Keris Congress in 2016, and today more than 250 keris communities across Indonesia are actively involved in preserving this tradition,” he said.

He noted that the growing number of keris enthusiasts demonstrates the sustainability of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. According to him, strengthening cultural literacy and academic research is essential to ensure the tradition continues to thrive among future generations.

The government is also supporting professional development for keris practitioners through the establishment of the Indonesian Keris Professional Certification Institute. Fadli explained that the certification body currently offers 29 competency schemes to improve skills and standards in the field.

The keris has been internationally recognized as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO since 2005. The recognition places the traditional dagger alongside other Indonesian cultural icons that have gained global acknowledgment.

Indonesia is also preparing to nominate additional cultural traditions for UNESCO recognition later this year. The country plans to propose Tempe and Mak Yong through a joint submission with Malaysia.

Closing the event, Fadli called for broader collaboration between government institutions, cultural communities, and the public to preserve Indonesia’s heritage. “The keris is part of our cultural legacy that must be protected and can also be developed as Indonesia’s cultural intellectual property,” he said.