"The IPACS 2025 Forum is a concrete manifestation of the Culture Ministry's commitment to preserving history and cultural heritage, thereby strengthening unity among regional countries," Fadli Zon said.
He made the statement while chairing the Indonesia-Pacific Cultural Synergy (IPACS) 2025 Ministerial Dialogue, themed "Rich and Diverse Cultural Heritage of the Pacific Region: A Driver of Sustainable Development."
He stated that IPACS 2025, themed "Celebrating Shared Cultures and Community Wisdom," is a forum that can serve as a driving force for advancing sustainable development in the Pacific region.
"The meeting reflects the reality of our collaboration, uniting us to prioritize various programs. Because culture in the Pacific region can be a driving force for unity and shared prosperity," he said.
Fadli Zon noted that Asia-Pacific countries face challenges threatening cultural values, such as declining regional languages and youth migration. However, he added, technology also offers opportunities to preserve and promote culture through various digital platforms.
Meanwhile, the Culture Minister of Fiji, Ifereimi Vasu, expressed his appreciation for the holding of IPACS 2025, initiated by the Indonesian government through the Culture Ministry of Indonesia.
Vasu agreed with Fadli Zon's emphasis on the importance of cultural preservation, cooperation, and regional synergy.
"The Fiji-Indonesia cooperative relationship has existed for more than fifty years, grounded in the spirit of national development. Indonesia has supported Fiji through infrastructure development, scholarships, and technical cooperation, which have enriched our creative talent," he said.
According to Vasu, the cultural heritage of the Pacific is an extraordinary asset. Cultural heritage underpins identity, strengthens community ties, and fosters economic opportunities.
It can also guide sustainable and inclusive environmental conservation for Pacific countries while sharing stories with the world.
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Translator: Kornelis Kaha, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
