The initiative affirms Indonesia’s identity as an ancient civilization with a written tradition dating back to the 4th century AD.
“UNESCO’s Memory of the World program exists to prevent historical amnesia. That’s its noble purpose,” said Expert Staff to the Minister of Culture for Inter-Institutional Relations, Ismunandar, on Monday.
He emphasized that the Yupa nomination is a national priority, as it would be the first inscription from Indonesia registered in the program.
Indonesia currently has 16 documentary heritages listed, including La Galigo and Nagarakretagama, which originate from much later periods.
Yupa is the oldest known written artifact in the archipelago, marking the transition from prehistory to recorded history.
It also reflects Indonesia’s early ability to adapt and localize foreign cultural influences.
“The nomination document is being finalized and will be submitted to UNESCO by the November deadline,” Ismunandar added.
Head of the Cultural Preservation Center (BPK) Region XIV East Kalimantan–North Kalimantan, Lestari, voiced full support for the nomination.
She noted that Yupa’s preservation would go beyond protection, focusing on sustainable development and regional benefit.
“We hope all stakeholders—from government to local communities—will collaborate to ensure Yupa’s recognition as world heritage,” she said.
Translator: Ahmad Rifandi, Katriana
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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