Indonesia seeks OIC support to join UNESCO's Cultural Heritage Committee

JAKARTA - Indonesia has begun to rally support from OIC countries to join the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage UNESCO period 2026-2030.

The move was discussed by Minister of Culture Fadli Zon together with the Indonesian Ambassador to France Mohamad Oemar in a meeting with ambassadors and permanent delegates of OIC member countries at UNESCO, Paris, Friday, April 24.

The meeting was attended by delegations from Palestine, Iran, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, and Brunei Darussalam. For Indonesia, this forum is important because the nomination to the UNESCO committee is not enough to bring a cultural track record. Diplomatic support is also decisive.

"This meeting is an important opportunity to campaign and ask for support for Indonesia's candidacy as a member of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the ICH UNESCO period 2026-2030," Fadli said in a written statement, Saturday, April 25.

Fadli said Indonesia was ready to take a greater role in preserving the world's intangible cultural heritage. He also mentioned the establishment of the Ministry of Culture as an independent ministry under President Prabowo Subianto opened up wider cultural cooperation.

"We emphasize Indonesia's readiness to contribute more actively to the preservation of the world's intangible cultural heritage, including through strengthening community-based protection and expanding cooperation between OIC member countries," said Fadli.

According to Fadli, Indonesia also wants to strengthen bilateral cultural cooperation with OIC countries. The scope of cooperation can be entered through the preservation of art, Islamic culture, to the joint nomination at UNESCO.

The dialogue also discussed ways to expand the visibility of Islamic art and culture on the global stage. The scheme can be through joint nominations, expansion of existing nominations, and integrated preservation programs within the framework of UNESCO.

Fadli hopes that the solidarity of OIC countries can become a common strength to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen diplomacy.

"I hope this meeting will further strengthen the solidarity and cooperation of OIC countries in preserving cultural heritage, as well as reaffirm Indonesia's commitment to making culture a bridge for diplomacy, friendship, and a contribution to global peace," said Fadli.