Malay Culture Lives In The Sea, Minister Of Culture Fadli Zon Encourages Marine Herbal Medicine Heritage To Enter ICH

JAKARTA - Pantai Cermin, Serdang Bedagai Tradition of sea jamu is not just a ritual, but a living mirror of coastal Malay people who are grateful for nature. In the midst of the wave of modernization, this tradition remains upright. The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, Fadli Zon, witnessed the cultural pulse directly at the Jamu Laut traditional ceremony in Serdang Bedagai, North Sumatra, Wednesday, July 23, 2025.

"This tradition is a form of gratitude, local wisdom that reflects the harmonious relationship between humans and the sea," said Fadli, appreciating the Indonesian Malay Youth Movement (GAMI) and the Serdang Bedagai Regency Government which held this event.

Fadli emphasized that sea herbs are not only culturally important, but are also relevant to the food security agenda. Fishermen who protect the sea not just exploit it will get more blessings. If the sea is guarded, the fish is abundant. This tradition unites spirituality and sustainability," he explained.

The sea complex was held by fishermen as a prayer for safety and hope for abundant catch. They present offerings, read prayers, and respect the sea as a source of life. This tradition is also a educational space for the younger generation, so that it is not expressed from the roots of its culture.

The series of events began with the embedding of the typical Malay incline to Minister Fadli as a symbol of respect. Then proceed with dances, reading the Qur'an, compensation for orphans, and signing the inauguration of the Marine Herbal Medicine as well as the ritual of completing the Buffalo Offer.

Also present were the Director General of Cultural and Traditional Protection, Restu Gunawan; Serdang Bedagai Regent, Darma Wijaya; IX's Sultan Serdang, IDR H. Akhmad Tala'a Syariful Alamasyah; as well as traditional leaders and fishermen.

Ending his visit, Fadli hopes that Marine Herbal Medicine can be recognized as Indonesia's Intangible Cultural Heritage. He hopes that the traditions of Marine Herbal Medicine can soon be listed as one of Indonesia's Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). Hopefully this year we can propose Marine Herbal Medicine to the national ICH list," said Fadli Zon.