Wastra Nusantara Becomes A Symbol Of Indonesian Cultural Diplomacy At UNESCO

JAKARTA - Wastra Nusantara is not just a cloth, this is an ancestral heritage that contains historical traces, cultural values, and the collective identity of the Indonesian nation.

Each strand of wastra, ranging from batik, weaving, to ikat cloth, reflects the diversity of ethnicity and local wisdom that live and grow in various parts of the country.

Through its motifs, colors, and fabrication techniques, wastra is a medium of cultural expression that has a strong appeal to be introduced at the global level.

In an effort to promote the nation's cultural wealth, the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, Fadli Zon, introduced the beauty of wastra Nusantara to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris, France.

During the visit, Fadli Zon symbolically handed over four types of traditional Indonesian fabrics to UNESCO. This action reflects Indonesia's commitment to preserving cultural heritage, as well as demonstrating the importance of wastra as a national identity in the international arena.

"This submission is a tangible manifestation of Indonesia's commitment to safeguarding and reviving ancestral culture," said Fadli Zon.

The Wastra-wastra handed over is the work of well-known designer Edward Hutabarat, who is known for his dedication in lifting the wealth of traditional Indonesian fabrics. One of the fabrics given is the batik Sawunggaling motif from Central Java, which describes male chickens as a symbol of strength and determination.

In addition, Sumba's distinctive cloth is also presented with complicated woven fabrics that take weeks in the manufacturing process, reflecting the values of persistence and local wisdom.

Cultivation is a form of living expression. Each motif in a cloth has a meaning, becomes a visual language that is able to open cross-cultural dialogue and strengthen understanding between nations," he added.

The fabrics will later be displayed at the Indonesian Corner at UNESCO headquarters, a space dedicated to introducing Indonesian culture more broadly to the international community.

Jennifer Linkins, Assistant Director General for UNESCO Administration, expressed her appreciation for Indonesia's move. He considered that the handover of this wastra was a good example for other countries in caring for and promoting their respective cultural heritages.

This momentum is also part of a series of visits by Minister Fadli Zon to France in accompanying President Prabowo Subianto to attend the celebration of French National Day (Bastille Day) and commemorating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and France.

During his visit, Fadli Zon also met the Minister of Culture of France, Rachida Dati, in a French Strategic Cultural Dialogue forum "Indonesia". The meeting resulted in the adoption of a strategic declaration of cooperation that includes the field of museums, preservation of cultural heritage, and development of the creative economy sector which is a common priority.

This cultural dialogue is a follow-up to French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Indonesia in May, marking a new era of cultural collaboration between the two countries.