Chairman Of The MPR RI Initiates Wayang Tour To Malaysia As Cultural Diplomacy
JAKARTA - Chairman of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly Ahmad Muzani initiated a wayang tour in Malaysia which was named "Tour Wayang Santri Malaysia 2025" as part of cultural diplomacy.
Muzani explained that the tour featured a wayang golek santri performance entitled "Putra Satria Laras" from Tegal, Central Java, as a form of diplomacy as well as entertainment for Indonesian diaspora in Malaysia.
"This is a momentum to show Indonesia's cultural wealth while maintaining historical ties with Malaysia. Puppets are proof that even two countries can synergize through art," said Muzani in a statement in Jakarta, Sunday.
He further said that the wayang golek santri was chosen to be displayed because it has a value full of uniqueness, combines traditional pedalangan art with Islamic values, and is relevant to the Malaysian multi-cultural community.
"The show of wayang santri is a tradition hundreds of years ago in Java from our ancestors and now as a culture remains alive. This is what we show that in villages in Java many people learn religion to remember who we are, where we come from, and who we live for," he said.
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Meanwhile, the show will present Indonesian puppeteer legend Ki Haryo Susilo Enthus Susmono in four cities namely the Mantan Anang Palace, Johor Bahru; Angsana Mall, Johor Bahru; Alamis Hotel Kuala Lumpur; and finally at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) Kuala Lumpur.
The implementation of Wayang Santri in Malaysia is fully supported by the Indonesian Embassy in Malaysia and the Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru.
Indonesian Ambassador to Malaysia, Hermono said the Indonesian Embassy welcomed the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly initiative as part of the Indonesia and Malaysia Cultural Bridge programs.
Wayang golek santri was chosen because of its relevance with the Malaysian multi-cultural community. We will ensure this event becomes a momentum for the Indonesian diaspora and you in Malaysia," said Hermono.