Indonesia Urges Regional Language Bill as Strategic Issue

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, held a working meeting with the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) in Jakarta, Monday, April 6, 2026. The meeting discussed several strategic issues, including the Regional Language Bill and the Ministry of Culture’s priority programs for 2026.

The discussion aimed to bolster cooperation between the central government and regional authorities in advancing Indonesia’s cultural development. The Regional Language Bill was highlighted as a key instrument to protect and sustain local languages as an essential part of national identity.

In his opening remarks, he affirmed that cultural advancement is a constitutional mandate that must be implemented systematically and sustainably. He stressed that local languages play a crucial role in maintaining Indonesia’s cultural resilience.

“Regional languages are not merely tools of communication, but the foundation of cultural resilience and national identity. The state must ensure that these languages are protected, developed, utilized, and passed down to future generations,” the Minister said.

He added that efforts to safeguard local languages must shift from passive preservation to active revitalization. According to him, this can be achieved through integration into education systems, the use of digital technology, and greater involvement of young people in creating content in local languages.

Fadli Zon also highlighted the importance of data-based cultural planning through the Regional Cultural Policy Document (PPKD). He explained that the document serves as an important foundation for designing cultural policies at the regional level.

“PPKD is not just an administrative document, but a basis for cultural decision-making grounded in real conditions in the field. Through it, we can ensure that policies truly respond to the needs of the community,” he said.

Responding to the presentation, DPD RI Chairperson, Filep Wamafma, expressed appreciation for the minister’s input and said it strengthened the substance of the Regional Language Bill currently under discussion. He noted that collaboration between the central government and regional stakeholders is essential to ensure the policy effectively addresses the needs of communities across Indonesia.