"On behalf of the Republic of Indonesia, we express our gratitude to UNESCO and Paraguay for organizing this important meeting. Despite the distance, a shared appreciation of culture and heritage unites us," he said, according to a press statement received from the ministry here on Tuesday.
He added that the meeting is a means of dialogue that can promote the universal value of peace.
Indonesia, with more than 17 thousand islands, 2,400 ethnic groups, and 720 regional languages, is a real example of vibrant cultural diversity, he highlighted.
Through the national motto of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika or unity in diversity, Indonesia is continuing to encourage cultural preservation that strengthens unity amidst differences.
So far, Indonesia has registered more than two thousand elements in the national inventory of intangible cultural heritage and 13 elements in the UNESCO List, with three new elements being ratified in the session.
"Intangible cultural heritage is not only a relic of the past, but a testament to human resilience and unity, which is relevant to modern world challenges, such as climate change, conflict, urbanization, and technological advancement," Minister Zon observed.
Under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto, he said, the Asta Cita vision which has eight main missions has become the foundation to strengthen harmony between humans, culture, and nature.
Zon further stated Indonesia's readiness to participate in the nomination of members of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage for the 2026–2030 period.
He said he expects that with Indonesia's cultural diplomacy efforts, global cooperation in maintaining cultural sustainability for future generations can be realized.
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Translator: Putri H, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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