Cultural Diversity Can Be The Identity Of The Indonesian Nation

JAKARTA - Indonesia is known as one of the countries with the most diverse cultural wealth in the world. From Sabang to Merauke, traditional heritage, language, arts, and traditions thrive as a reflection of the wealth of national civilization.

This diversity is not only a national identity, but also a great potential to strengthen Indonesia's position in the global arena through cultural diplomacy.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized that Indonesia's cultural wealth should be the main force in building the nation's character and strengthening unity.

We have extraordinary cultural wealth that should be a national identity. However, the challenge is how this culture can really seep into people's daily lives," he said in an official statement in Jakarta.

He emphasized the importance of reintroducing the nation's cultural heritage as a solid foundation in facing the modern era. According to him, Indonesia is not a new country in the history of world civilization. We are one of the oldest civilizations. Since 1.8 million years ago, the archipelago region has witnessed various cultural traces, ranging from ancient equipment to cave wall paintings that we can still see today," he added.

Furthermore, Fadli Zon said that Indonesian culture has a strategic role in realizing world peace. He believes that cultural power can be a bridge to strengthening relations between nations.

On this occasion, he appreciated the celebration of the 41st anniversary of the Indonesian Student Association for International Studies (Isafis) which raised the theme of cultural diplomacy for global peace. I really appreciate Isafis' initiative in strengthening cultural diplomacy. Conflict is part of human history, but culture has the power to bring together differences and build harmony," he explained.

He also invited the younger generation to be actively involved in cultural conservation while making it an effective diplomatic tool. "With cultural diplomacy, Indonesia not only introduces its identity, but also contributes to creating world peace," he concluded.