The inclusion was proposed by the Lampung Provincial Library and Archives Office, which said the designation reflects the local government's commitment to preserving the region’s literary heritage.
The first manuscript, Poerba Ratoe, dates from 1907 to 1915 and is held by the author’s heir, Arief Sofyan. It covers 61 topics, including history, customary law, and governance of past Lampung society.
Written in the Lampung Pepadun dialect using the Had Lampung script, it spans 108 pages on European paper.
The second, Ingok Perjanjian Kita, is a spiritual manuscript from the 17th to 18th century. Composed on folded bark paper in accordion style, it features 40 sheets written in Had Lampung script and a mix of Lampung, Old Malay, and Banten languages.
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The text recounts a sacred agreement between humans, forest spirits, and the natural world.
“These manuscripts highlight the depth of Lampung's literary and cultural traditions,” said Fitrianita Damhuri, head of the Lampung Library and Archives Office, in a statement.
She said the IKON recognition serves as both a point of pride and a motivation to preserve ancient texts for future generations.
“This acknowledgment reinforces the role of Nusantara manuscripts as vital sources of knowledge, cultural identity, and national memory,” Damhuri added.
She called on the public to take a more active role in safeguarding Indonesia’s written heritage, particularly rare manuscripts that contribute to the country’s collective cultural understanding.
Indonesia's IKON program seeks to identify and protect culturally significant documents that reflect the nation’s historical narrative.
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Translator: Ruth, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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