RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is exploring ways to integrate kolintang, a traditional percussion music ensemble recognized by UNESCO, into the national education system. The initiative was discussed during a meeting between Culture Ministry and the National Kolintang Association (PINKAN Indonesia) in Jakarta on May 4, 2026.

Kolintang was inscribed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2024. Officials said the meeting focused on the instrument’s growth, challenges, and strategies to strengthen its future across the country.

PINKAN Indonesia reported rapid development of kolintang in several regions, including competitions for elementary and junior high school students in Manado and Surabaya. Plans are also underway to establish trainer associations in Bali, East Kalimantan, and Sumatra.

The organization said interest in kolintang has reached early childhood students, particularly in Surabaya. However, Jakarta was identified as an area where stronger promotion and more active coaching are still needed.

Fadli Zon praised PINKAN Indonesia for helping preserve the cultural tradition and welcomed proposals to expand kolintang through extracurricular school programs. “We encourage the proposal to be formally submitted so it can become the basis for coordination with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education,” he said.

The minister also stressed the importance of institutionalizing intangible cultural heritage through formal education. He noted that other traditions such as keris and wayang already have dedicated university study programs, and kolintang could follow a similar path.

The Ministry of Culture said support could also come through the Dana Indonesiaraya funding program for festivals, competitions, workshops, and training related to kolintang development. PINKAN additionally proposed broader curriculum integration and public conferences to strengthen awareness of kolintang’s world heritage status.

Composer and cultural figure, Franki Raden, said kolintang could become a strong candidate for Indonesia’s national music identity. He argued that its roots in Indonesian culture and use of the diatonic scale make it suitable for music education from basic to secondary levels.